Unconditional Aid and ‘Hybrid Democracy’: The Case of Cambodia

Democracy in Cambodia today has become meaningless due to the policies and actions of the ruling government. Part of this can be attributed to the hybrid nature of what was Cambodian democracy. As a hybrid democracy, western democratic elements were not completely transposed into Cambodian culture. These elements coupled with the rise of China and the exponential increase of unconditional Chinese aid and investment into Cambodia has resulted in a situation whereby the government can play a double game. It maintains a minimal façade of democracy to continue receiving western aid, while accepting an unlimited amount of Chinese aid, which is unconditional on democratic governance. As Chinese aid crowds out western aid, the remaining democratic practices in Cambodia such as political parties and elections will cease to exist entirely. This paper concludes with suggestions as to how to bolster and resuscitate democracy in Cambodia by addressing the youth, who make up more than 50% of the population.