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History
In the transitional period between the signing of Paris Peace Agreement
in October 1991 and a free National election conducted by UNTAC
in May 1993, Cambodia was governed by the Supreme National Council.
Regrouping the four major parties. Administration of the country
was temporarily entrusted to UNTAC, which successfully organized
the elections with a large turnout of the population.
Following the installation of an interim Provisional Government,
the elected constituted the Assembly adopted and promulgated on
September 24, 1993 the nation's constitution, which proclaimed king
Norodom Sihanouk as head of state and established the Royal Government
of Cambodia within a framework of parliamentary democracy. Two Prime
Ministers were appointed to present the two major parties that won
the elections. This same date marks the official end of UNTAC's
mandate.
Culture
Buddhist values play an important role in the lives of the people
of Cambodia. Being a naturally modest people, these values are incorporated
into their everyday lives and inculcated in their young. There are
certain ways of behaving and certain rules to observe when visiting
a Wat or a private homes, for example. A tradition which is slowly
losing its place in Khmer society is the prayer-like greeting gesture
called the (somplair). It is somewhat similar to the Thai Wai; it
is done by putting both palms together in front of the chest and
bowing one's head slightly. Nowadays, many people shake hands in
the Western tradition and it is mainly the women who practice this
custom.
Cambodians don't wear hats or shoes in their homes (or wats) they
have to be removed and left at the entrance. The head is a sacred
part of the body; it's rude to pat anyone on the head.The sign of
crossing your fingers (normally regarded as a good luck sign in
Western countries) is considered an obscene gesture in Cambodia.
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