A UN human rights expert said Thursday that in order for Cambodia to “achieve a durable peace and sustainable development,” the Cambodian government must work more closely with civil society groups.

The expert noted that “civil society organizations still faced considerable burdens in complying with Cambodia’s restrictive laws.” The expert urged the government to review the legislative framework and work with civil society groups in order to achieve the aim of the laws “without being unduly burdensome.” In addition, the laws should be “applied transparently and fairly.”

In particular, the expert was concerned about “lengthy pre-trial detention as well as the length of time taken for trials to take place.” The expert concluded by reminding the Cambodian government of “the central role that respecting human rights plays in achieving sustainable development.”