For women in Cambodia and other parts of Southeast Asia, the path to leadership in law enforcement and the judiciary is still a challenging one. Despite their crucial roles in maintaining justice and order, female figures in these fields are still relatively scarce, often facing systemic barriers and an invisible ceiling that limits their ascent. Yet a few women are breaking through, paving the way for others and leaving a mark.
Today, to mark the end of the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) interviews two such women. Both have reached senior positions in Cambodia’s law enforcement field and judicial sectors. Interviews with police lieutenant General Ros Chansophea and Judge Chhun Davy provide insight into their professional journeys, the obstacles they have faced, and their roles in advancing gender equality within their sectors.
Police Lieutenant General Ros Chansophea is the Deputy Commissioner General of the Cambodian National Police, a role she has held since her appointment in 2022. With over 20 years of service, General Chansophea has been a key figure in modernizing Cambodia’s law enforcement strategies and enhancing public safety. Her leadership is marked by efforts to address complex security challenges and implement reforms within the police force. As a trailblazer for women in law enforcement, General Chansophea’s career reflects her dedication to advancing both the effectiveness of the Cambodian National Police and the role of women in policing.
Q: Can you describe your journey to becoming the Deputy Commissioner General of the Cambodian National Police?
A: My professional journey began 22 years ago when I graduated from the College of Management and commenced my career as a police officer specializing in accounting and finance. Over the years, my dedication and commitment to service led to significant advancements within the National Police.
For more than 13 years, I had the honour of serving as the first female Chief of the National Police Salary Office. In this role, I was entrusted with the critical responsibility of managing the timely disbursement of salaries, allowances, and visas for police leaders and officers across the nation. A notable achievement during my tenure was the successful implementation of the Royal Government of Cambodia's policy to facilitate bi-monthly salary payments through the banking system, thereby enhancing the efficiency and transparency of financial operations within the police force.
Throughout my nearly five years in this role, I have earned the trust of leadership and been appointed as the Deputy Commissioner of the National Police, where I lead efforts in gender issues and the prevention of gender-based violence, with the support of UNODC. The General Commission of the National Police is responsible for implementing the gender equality policy set forth by the Royal Government of Cambodia and the Ministry of Interior. This initiative aims to enhance the vital role of women within the National Police Force, particularly in public security protection, order maintenance, and value promotion in society.
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to public service, working diligently to enhance safety and security while championing the empowerment of women within the National Police. My journey serves as a testament to the opportunities that arise from perseverance, dedication, and a genuine passion for serving our society.
Q: What are some of the challenges women face in law enforcement?
A: Women in law enforcement encounter a range of significant challenges that affect their professional and personal lives. One of the foremost issues is the division of time between their demanding careers and family responsibilities. Women in law enforcement are often expected to manage high-pressure roles at work while maintaining traditional domestic responsibilities, which can lead to significant stress and difficulty in achieving work-life balance. This dual burden underscores the need for systemic support structures to alleviate the pressures faced by women in this field.
While women possess the capability to perform the same duties as their male counterparts in law enforcement, they face unique challenges. Law enforcement officers, regardless of gender, are tasked with managing high-risk situations and addressing vulnerabilities, tasks that demand both physical and emotional resilience, including potential threats. Women's ability to navigate these responsibilities is commendable, yet the nature of their roles can present additional complexities that require careful consideration and support, highlighting the necessity for an inclusive culture that supports their professional growth.
Conversely, technological advancements pose notable challenges to the effectiveness of female law enforcement officers. Various factors, including societal norms, cultural expectations, and traditional roles, contribute to the limited involvement of women in technology-related disciplines. Despite progress in gender equity, there remains a noticeable gap in the number of women pursuing education and training in technology. This disparity poses challenges in adapting to the increasingly technology-driven practices in modern law enforcement, emphasizing the need for targeted initiatives to bridge this gap.
The participation of women in law enforcement is still relatively limited, which affects the overall effectiveness of task forces and leadership. A lack of gender diversity restricts the range of perspectives available for decision-making and problem-solving, which are critical for addressing the complex issues faced by law enforcement agencies. The underrepresentation of women in leadership roles further exacerbates these challenges, as it limits mentorship opportunities and hinders the development of a more inclusive and equitable organizational culture.
Q: How do you see the role of women evolving in Cambodian law enforcement?
A: I have witnessed and associated firsthand how women are gradually taking on more leadership roles and contributing to meaningful reforms within law enforcement. This shift is vital for building a more inclusive and effective police force. From my own experience, I believe that with continued support and more opportunities for growth, women will play an even larger role in shaping the future of our national security.
As more women step into leadership positions, we bring fresh perspectives and approaches that will strengthen the force and make it better equipped to meet the challenges ahead. I am hopeful that, over time, the impact of women in law enforcement will only continue to grow.
Q: What advice would you give to younger women who are considering a career in your field?
A: To young women aspiring to enter law enforcement, my advice is to embrace your passion and pursue it with unwavering determination. While the path may present challenges, including the need to overcome gender-based barriers, your commitment and resilience will ultimately lay the groundwork for success. It is essential to seek both leadership and technical training to establish a well-rounded skill set that will serve as a strong foundation for your career. Additionally, it is important to recognize that women bring distinct strengths to the field such as empathy, emotional intelligence, and resilience that are invaluable in law enforcement. These qualities not only enhance the effectiveness of police work but are also vital in building trust and fostering positive community relations.
To cultivate responsible leadership, it is crucial to practice and enhance professional skills, particularly in the prevention of gender-based violence. By focusing on these competencies, you can make meaningful contributions to your field and support broader goals in justice and security, especially in the effective reduction of violence. Your dedication to developing these skills will not only advance your career but also have a positive impact on the communities you serve.
Small but growing percentage
Current statistics reveal that women make up a small but growing percentage of Cambodia’s judiciary, reflecting broader efforts to address gender imbalances within the legal profession. Judge Chhun Davy is a prominent female judge who exemplifies the impact of this gradual shift. With a career dedicated to upholding justice and promoting gender equality, she plays an important role in advancing the representation of women in Cambodia’s legal system. Her experiences and insights shed light on the evolving dynamics of gender within the judiciary and the ongoing efforts to enhance female participation at all levels of the judiciary.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in the judiciary?
A: From a young age, I dreamed of a career in law inspired by movies. My dream was to be a lawyer because I always thought lawyers got to defend right from wrong. When the opportunity arose, I took the exam to become a judge instead, as it came first. Being a judge is a responsibility, as it involves studying cases and evidence thoroughly before making a final verdict. It is your decision, the final verdict.
I recall a moment when a colleague questioned why I pursued a judicial career as a woman. I was taken aback and asked him to clarify. He said that women were typically expected to pursue careers in banking or accounting, not as judges. I responded firmly, “Why? A woman can do whatever she puts her mind to. If a man can, a woman should be able to as well.” He was speechless.
I also teach at the university level and encourage my students. I tell them: “Study hard, and go for what your heart strings.” I believe in helping people and supporting the good in society, which aligns with the role of a lawyer and judge in advocating for justice.
Q: What are the main barriers women face in the Cambodian judiciary, and how have you overcome them?
A: Women in the judiciary often face barriers such as limited representation and challenges in balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Overcoming these barriers requires resilience and support from colleagues and mentors. I’ve focused on demonstrating my capabilities through my work and advocating for greater female representation within the judiciary.
Q: What changes do you hope to see in the future of gender equality in the judiciary?
A: I hope to see a judiciary where gender equality is fully realized, with women holding positions at all levels. Greater representation will bring diverse perspectives to the legal process and enhance the fairness of our judicial system. Continued efforts to support and mentor women in law will be crucial in achieving these goals.
Q: What advice would you give to younger women who are considering a career in your field?
A: For younger women considering a career in the judiciary, my advice is to follow your passion and never let anyone’s expectations or stereotypes limit you. The path may be challenging, but with hard work and commitment, you can achieve your goals. Don’t be discouraged by gender biases; focus on your abilities and strive to make a positive impact through your work. Your contributions are invaluable in the pursuit of justice and fairness.
Click here to access a UNODC-UN Women-INTERPOL report on women in law enforcement in the ASEAN region.
