Phe Somealea graduated with a master’s degree in international relations from the Australian National University in 2024 under the Australia Awards Scholarship. She serves at the General Department of ASEAN in Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. After nearly a decade at the ministry, she has now focused on supporting Cambodia’s relations with ASEAN and regional issues.  Studying in Australia enhanced her knowledge and provided critical experience for future diplomatic missions, safeguarding Cambodian interests and promoting its image globally. 

Sao Phal Niseiy speaks with Somealea about her study experience in Australia and her vision as a female foreign ministry official.

Sao Phal Niseiy: What are the most important things you learned from your international relations course?

Phe Somealea: It has been an incredibly transformative journey — both intellectually and personally.

My understanding of global politics is shaped by the theoretical lenses we apply. Realism, liberalism, constructivism, and postcolonial perspectives each offer profoundly different interpretations of the same events.

This exposure has encouraged me to approach international affairs with greater nuance and critical thinking.

The program also deepened my understanding of regional geopolitics, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. I gained a clearer view of the complexities of power transitions in the region, especially the shifting dynamics between China and the United States, and how Australia responds through diplomacy, strategic partnerships and regional engagement.

This experience challenges me to think beyond traditional, state-centric views of security and diplomacy

I also had the opportunity to reflect on how diplomacy is evolving in an increasingly transnational and digital world. I understood more deeply how economic and security issues are interlinked, and how historical shifts in global power continue to shape the institutions and international order we see today.

My time at ANU has not only provided me with a strong academic foundation but has also equipped me with the critical and ethical tools needed to navigate complex international contexts.

Sao Phal Niseiy: Why does studying international relations matter for a country like Cambodia? Who should consider taking a course?

Phe Somealea: Studying international relations is essential for a country like Cambodia, as it equips us to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world. As a small nation in a strategically significant region, Cambodia must engage thoughtfully and effectively with both regional neighbors and global powers to safeguard its sovereignty and advance its national interests.

This field of study provides the knowledge and tools to address pressing challenges — such as climate change, regional conflicts, trade negotiations and foreign investment — that transcend national borders.

It enables Cambodia to actively participate in regional and international platforms like ASEAN, where diplomacy and cooperation are vital to maintaining peace and stability.

Aspiring diplomats, government officials, policy analysts, journalists and NGO professionals alike can benefit from the critical thinking, cross-cultural understanding, and communication skills this discipline fosters.

Sao Phal Niseiy: As a woman diplomat, how does studying in Australia alter your perspective on international relations and enhance your sense of role in foreign affairs?

Phe Somealea: Studying in Australia as a woman diplomat has significantly broadened my perspective on international relations and deepened my understanding of my role in global affairs.

Immersed in a multicultural and inclusive environment, I’ve been exposed to diverse viewpoints and diplomatic practices that challenge conventional norms and expand my world view.

Australia’s strategic location in the Indo-Pacific, coupled with its strong academic programs in international relations and public policy, provides valuable insights into regional dynamics, global power shifts, and the complexities of multilateral diplomacy.

As a woman, I’ve also had the opportunity to engage with progressive gender policies and leadership models that champion equity and inclusion. This experience has not only empowered me personally but has also strengthened my commitment to promoting gender-sensitive diplomacy and increasing women's representation in international forums.

Sao Phal Niseiy: Could you share the most significant challenges you faced while undertaking your degree, and how you accomplished it?

Phe Somealea: One of the most significant challenges I faced was adapting to a new academic culture and communication style. Coming from a different educational background, I initially found it difficult to adjust to the emphasis on critical thinking, independent research and open, often spontaneous, classroom discussions.

Expressing my opinions confidently — especially on sensitive international issues in a diverse setting — was quite intimidating at first.

Being far from home also meant dealing with homesickness and the emotional challenge of balancing rigorous academic responsibilities with personal adjustment to a new environment.

As both a woman and a diplomat, I felt an added sense of responsibility to represent my country well, which sometimes led to internal pressure.

To overcome these challenges, I actively sought support from various sources — academic advisors, international student services and peers. I attended workshops hosted by visiting research fellows and professors, many of whom shared valuable insights on international issues.

I also joined study groups and gradually made friends from different nationalities, which helped build my confidence to participate in class discussions and debates.

Beyond academics, I stayed connected with the Cambodian community in Canberra, explored the beauty of Australia, cooked Khmer cuisine with my housemates while listening to Khmer songs, and maintained regular contact with my family back home.

These personal connections were essential in helping me feel grounded and supported. Embracing the diversity around me not only helped me adapt but also contributed significantly to my growth —  personally and professionally.

Most importantly, I continuously reminded myself of the purpose behind this journey: to become a more effective, inclusive, and globally minded diplomat. That sense of mission kept me focused, helped me navigate the challenges, and ultimately enabled me to thrive in a demanding yet transformative environment.

Sao Phal Niseiy: What were the most memorable experiences you acquired during your studies, that you want to share?

Phe Somealea:One of the most memorable moments was presenting on gastrodiplomacy, where I introduced Khmer cuisine through The Taste of Angkor I, published by Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

This presentation showcased how food can be a powerful form of soft power, extending Cambodia’s cultural identity beyond Angkor Wat and supporting the ministry’s broader initiative on economic diplomacy. Sharing our culinary heritage with classmates and my professor was a truly rewarding experience, highlighting food's unifying power in international relations.

Another unforgettable moment was attending public lectures featuring former and current foreign ministers of Australia, alongside some of ANU’s most prominent professors.

Hearing firsthand accounts of complex diplomatic decisions and foreign policy challenges brought the theories we studied in class to life. It was a powerful reminder of the real-world impact of diplomacy and the importance of ethical, principled leadership.

Beyond academics, it was the friendships I formed with peers from around the world that left a lasting impression. Late-night study sessions, cultural exchange events, and shared celebrations helped forge genuine bonds. These experiences taught me that diplomacy doesn’t begin in formal meetings. It starts with human connection, empathy and understanding.

Together, these experiences enriched my perspective on global affairs and inspired me to return home more open-minded, resilient and committed to meaningful and inclusive diplomatic engagement.

Sao Phal Niseiy: How do you envision the future of Cambodia’s international relations and the involvement of women in foreign policy decision-making?

Phe Somealea: Cambodia's international relations are evolving toward a more diversified and strategic approach, balancing long-standing alliances with the development of new global partnerships.

The country is actively strengthening ties with ASEAN neighbors while expanding diplomatic engagement with countries in Eastern and Central Europe, Central Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

These efforts are grounded in principles of mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs and a commitment to constructive multilateralism.

On the economic front, Cambodia is increasingly focused on economic diplomacy, seeking to attract foreign investment, diversify export markets, and promote its rich cultural heritage on the global stage. This strategic shift reflects the country's ambition to position itself as a proactive and connected player in the international arena.

In terms of gender representation, Cambodia has made remarkable progress in promoting women's involvement in foreign policy and governance.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has placed increasing emphasis on fostering inclusive leadership, and there has been a notable rise in the number of women serving in senior roles.

Looking ahead, it remains essential for Cambodia to sustain and expand these efforts, creating a foreign policy environment that fully embraces diversity and draws on the talent, insight and perspectives of all its citizens in shaping the nation's role on the global stage.