Youth should join in politics to benefit society

"In the past [before the Khmer Rouge], Cambodian youth loved politics
and spreading their ideas, because they loved their country and wanted
to learn so much," said HE Ros Chantraboth, an expert of Khmer
history.

He added that ordinary people faced incredible danger expressing their
political opinions during the regime.

Families, for this reason, hold their children back from engaging in
political discussion.

Although some young Cambodians might want to become political
advocates, they are discouraged by their parents.

Often times, if one does not have family connections in the
government, it is hard to obtain a good job working in politics.

Many young Cambodians born to average families believe that it's
useless to pursue a career in politics.

Kol Panha, Executive Director of the Committee for Free and Fair
Elections in Cambodia (Comfrel), said, "Youths are the main pillar of
this country, so involving them in politics is important."

"Surely, if youths don't get involved in politics, this will lead to
danger – for example, when leaders make a decision, youths who are
disengaged from politics won't know how to respond to the situation,
and they will not be able to protect their own benefits both in the
present and in the future," he said.

HE Ros Chantraboth said that youth should join in politics to greater
benefit society as a whole.

Kol Panha said that young Cambodians need encouragement to become
politically involved.

Sreng Phearun and Ou Banung
Wednesday, 16 May 2012
http://www.phnompenhpost.com/index.php/2012051656198/LIFT/the-political-pushback-whats-stopping-us/Print.html