Liberians in Cambodia: Seek Repatriation From Detention After Alleged Trafficking

A group of Liberian nationals have been held at a Cambodian immigration detention center in Phnom Penh since May 25, 2026 — not for any crime, but because they can't afford flight tickets home.

This situation raises concerns about human trafficking and the exploitation of migrant workers. The fact that these individuals were trafficked to Cambodia under false job promises and had their passports confiscated highlights the need for stronger protections against human trafficking. Practitioners should be aware of this issue as it has significant implications for immigration law and policy in Liberia.

The relevant laws governing immigration in Cambodia include the Immigration Law of 2008, which provides for the detention of individuals who are unable to pay their fines or flight tickets. However, the fact that these Liberian nationals were detained without being charged with a crime raises questions about the application of this law. The Cambodian government's treatment of migrant workers is also relevant, as it has been criticized for its handling of immigration cases.

The key parties involved are the group of Liberian nationals, the Cambodian immigration detention center, and the Cambodian government. Practitioners should monitor this situation closely as it highlights the need for stronger protections against human trafficking and exploitation.