The 2013 elections served as a critical test of the country’s ability to address historic shortcomings of its electoral process. A positive, if limited, step toward ensuring inclusiveness was King Norodom Sihamoni’s royal pardon of opposition leader Sam Rainsy at the request of Prime Minister Hun Sen. A second improvement in 2013 was a marked decrease in electoral-related violence. In addition, the increased role of social media allowed for a more lively exchange of information and political views than transpired in previous elections.

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