Op-ed day 2: Free to Have Faith? --by Andrew

Buddhism in Cambodia was central to shaping Khmer identity and fomenting the country’s independence movement. However, during the Khmer Rouge period, practicing the religion became a death sentence. Pol Pot’s regime targeted numerous groups for elimination, including Buddhist monks. Considering that Pol Pot himself practiced as a monk in his youth, it is incomprehensible how he could spurn his faith and target some of the most revered members of society for execution. Although monks are once again allowed to practice Buddhism, the legacy of the Khmer Rouge remains evident. Becoming a monk in Cambodia today is subject to government approval. The Ministry of Cults and Religious Affairs ultimately determines whether a man can become a Buddhist monk. Though the qualifications are basic—mainly concerning whether applicants have a criminal record—the government’s role in religious practices is disconcerting. Men should be able to have equal access to religious teaching and practice freely without government interference. The highest authority in this situation should be found within the hallowed walls of a pagoda, not a government agency.