Cambodia

On August 11, 1863, King Norodom of Cambodia signed the Protectorate Treaty with France, marking the beginning of French colonial rule. France became responsible for Cambodia's foreign affairs, defense, and trade, allowing Cambodia to retain nominal independence internally. This treaty was aimed at protecting Cambodia from Siamese and Vietnamese encroachments. It laid the foundation for French Cambodia, lasting until 1953 when Cambodia gained independence.

On November 9, 1953, Cambodia achieved independence from French colonial rule. King Norodom Sihanouk played a crucial role in negotiating freedom from France, marking the end of more than 90 years of colonial control. This event was a significant turning point in Cambodian history, leading to a period of independence and self-governance. The end of colonial rule was celebrated across the country as a restoration of national sovereignty.

On April 17, 1975, the Khmer Rouge, led by Pol Pot, captured the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh, marking the beginning of one of the darkest periods in Cambodian history. The event marked the fall of the Lon Nol government and started the Khmer Rouge regime, during which approximately 1.7 million people died due to famine, forced labor, and executions. The Khmer Rouge sought to create a classless agrarian society, leading to mass evacuations of cities and brutal policies.

On January 7, 1979, Vietnamese forces captured Phnom Penh, deposing the Khmer Rouge regime. This event ended the Khmer Rouge's four-year rule and led to the establishment of the People's Republic of Kampuchea. Vietnam's intervention was prompted by the Khmer Rouge's border attacks and genocidal policies. The fall of the regime allowed Cambodia to begin rebuilding, though it sparked a decade-long international conflict and humanitarian crisis.

Signed on October 23, 1991, the Paris Peace Agreements marked the official end of the Cambodian–Vietnamese War and aimed to restore peace and national reconciliation in Cambodia. The agreements paved the way for UN-administered elections and the establishment of a new government in Cambodia. This peace process was crucial for ending years of conflict and was supported by major international powers including the United States, Soviet Union, and China.

On September 24, 1993, Cambodia formally reinstated its monarchy under the constitutional guidance, with King Norodom Sihanouk as the monarch. This political change followed the UN-supervised elections in May 1993 that aimed to bring stability and democratic governance to the nation. The restoration was part of the transition to peace and democracy after years of civil conflict.

King Norodom Sihamoni ascended to the throne of Cambodia on July 2, 2004, following the abdication of his father, King Norodom Sihanouk, due to health issues. Sihamoni, who was educated in the Czech Republic and served as Cambodia's ambassador to UNESCO, was chosen by a special nine-member throne council. His ascension marked a continuation of the Cambodian monarchy's role following its restoration in the 1990s.

On July 14, 2004, Cambodia became the 148th member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), highlighting its efforts to integrate into the global economy. This accession was significant for Cambodia's economic development as it aimed to attract foreign investment and improve trade prospects. Challenges included structural adjustments within its domestic industries and aligning with international trade standards.

The Cambodian general election held on July 28, 2013, was marked by widespread allegations of irregularities and sparked significant political tension and protest. The ruling Cambodian People's Party, led by Prime Minister Hun Sen, claimed victory amid accusations from the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party of vote rigging and fraud. This election was pivotal in highlighting issues regarding electoral transparency and democratic governance in Cambodia.

On November 16, 2017, Cambodia's Supreme Court ordered the dissolution of the main opposition party, the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), accusing it of plotting to overthrow the government. This significant political event effectively eliminated any major opposition to Prime Minister Hun Sen's ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP), raising international concerns over democratic backsliding and political repression in the country.

The Cambodian general election on July 29, 2018, resulted in a landslide victory for the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP), led by Prime Minister Hun Sen. The election was controversial due to the absence of the main opposition, which had been dissolved by the Supreme Court the previous year. The CPP won all 125 parliamentary seats, consolidating its power and prompting international criticism over the lack of democratic pluralism.

On February 20, 2021, Cambodia launched its COVID-19 vaccination campaign, beginning with frontline healthcare workers and government officials. The campaign used vaccines from multiple sources, including China and the COVAX facility. Cambodia’s efforts in vaccination were notable for their rapid implementation and high vaccination rates compared to other countries in the region. This vaccination drive was part of the global effort to control the COVID-19 pandemic.

Norodom Sihanouk passed away on October 15, 2012, marking the end of an era for Cambodia. Born on October 31, 1922, Sihanouk was a pivotal figure in Cambodia's modern history, serving as king, prime minister, and head of state in various capacities. His reign was marked by significant political changes, including navigating Cambodia's path through independence from French colonial rule and the tumultuous periods of war and political upheaval thereafter.