A conversation with Soy Sophea: journalism, culture, and challenges in Cambodia

by Ty Chhayhak

In a world where storytelling shapes societies, journalists stand at the crossroads of truth and power. Few understand this better than Soy Sophea, a veteran Cambodian journalist and the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Information. With 24 years of experience, he has reported on some of Cambodia’s most pressing social and political issues.

In this conversation, Sophea shares his journey into journalism, the role of cultural context in news reporting, and the challenges of covering sensitive topics in a conservative society.

The power of truth and the danger of silence

Growing up in Cambodia, Sophea was acutely aware of the importance of storytelling.

“I saw firsthand how important it is to have a voice for the people, especially in a country with such a complex history,” he reflects. The stories he heard from his parents and grandparents about life during the Khmer Rouge and Cambodia’s subsequent rebuilding shaped his belief in the power of journalism.

“I was inspired to become a journalist because I wanted to shed light on issues that often go unnoticed, stories about the struggles of rural farmers, the youth pushing for change, or the environmental damage threatening our future.”

For Sophea, journalism is more than just reporting facts; it is about empowerment. “In a world where narratives can be controlled, I wanted to be someone who sought out the truth and shared it responsibly.”

Journalism through a cultural lens

News reporting is never culturally neutral, Sophea explains. Different societies shape how stories are told and received.

“In collectivist cultures like Cambodia, news often focuses on the community rather than individualism, which is more common in Western media,” he notes. Sensitivity to norms, audience expectations, and the role of media in holding power accountable all vary across cultures.

“Cultural values influence everything—from how journalists frame a story to what ethical boundaries they navigate.” In some societies, journalistic ethics emphasize transparency, while in others, privacy is paramount. Political constraints also play a key role in press freedom, directly impacting what can and cannot be reported.

Covering sensitive issues in a conservative society

Journalists working in culturally conservative societies face unique challenges. For Sophea, reporting on issues like gender, religion, and human rights requires a delicate balance between truth and respect.

“There’s always the risk of backlash,” he says. “Authorities, communities, or powerful groups can react strongly against stories they perceive as controversial.”

Self-censorship has become a survival tactic for many journalists. “Sometimes, we have to think twice about how far we can push a story without endangering ourselves or our media outlets.” Access to sources is another obstacle. “People may hesitate to speak openly, fearing stigma or retaliation. This makes it harder to present a complete picture of the issue at hand.”

Government censorship further complicates the landscape: “Some topics are outright suppressed, making it difficult to publish investigative pieces that challenge dominant narratives.”

Despite these difficulties, Sophea remains committed to his mission. “Every story is an opportunity to challenge stereotypes, break cycles of corruption, and remind the world that Cambodians are resilient and capable of extraordinary things.”

A shared mission, a universal commitment

A commitment to storytelling and truth is at the heart of journalism, regardless of region or culture. “Journalism varies across cultures and is shaped by local values, political systems, and societal priorities,” Sophea reflects. “But whether you’re reporting from Phnom Penh or New York, the mission remains the same: to seek truth, amplify voices, and hold power accountable.”

His hope for the future of journalism? “That it continues to evolve, adapt, and find ways to tell the stories that need to be told no matter the challenges.”