Cambodia has a law requiring participants in peaceful assemblies and demonstrations to hold them exclusively in specially designated areas — so-called "freedom parks." Initially, the authorities presented this measure as a way to bring order to public gatherings and ensure the safety of both protesters and bystanders. However, human rights advocates and observers note that in practice the law has become a tool for restricting civil liberties. According to them, the use of "freedom parks" not only confines protest activity to narrowly defined zones, but the very right to use them is increasingly being challenged and blocked by the authorities. Organizers of rallies are often denied permission to hold events even within the designated areas, with officials citing various formal pretexts. Critics of the law point out that this practice contradicts international norms on the right to freedom of assembly, including those enshrined in documents Cambodia has signed. Civil society activists say the shrinking space for peaceful expression of protest is having a negative impact on the country's political life and is making dialogue between the authorities and society more difficult. The situation surrounding "freedom parks" is seen as part of a broader trend toward restricting civil rights in Cambodia, where recent years have also seen pressure on independent media, opposition politicians, and human rights organizations. Experts are calling for a revision of the assembly law to bring it in line with international standards and to ensure a genuine — rather than merely formal — ability for citizens to express their views.