“Between Two Cultures, a Civic Commitment” — Sathya Sor, candidate on the list “Citizen Relay of French Nationals in Cambodia”

Sathya Sor is a candidate on the “Citizen Relay of French Nationals in Cambodia” list for the election of Councillors representing French citizens abroad. Born to Cambodian parents who fled the war to settle in France, she grew up between two cultures, two languages, and two histories.

Sathya Sor

After more than ten years working in the events industry in Paris, she decided last year to leave everything behind and settle in Siem Reap — a decision that was far from trivial and very much a return to her roots.

Now integrated into the local economic and community network, she works in communications for a company specializing in Khmer handicrafts and actively participates in the coordination committee of the Siem Reap Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI).

Drawing on this dual experience — as a French citizen grounded in Cambodian reality and as a woman of Khmer origin deeply connected to her roots — she is now presenting herself to the French community in Cambodia.

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In this interview, she discusses her background, what led her to get involved, and the vision she holds for the French community in Cambodia.

Can you briefly introduce yourself: your background, education, and personal story?

My name is Sathya Sor, and my path resembles that of many people of my generation whose parents fled the war before settling in France. Born to Cambodian parents, I grew up in France, where I lived until last year before deciding to move to Siem Reap.

After studying tourism, I worked for more than ten years in the events sector in Paris. Today, I work in communications for a company specializing in Khmer handicrafts.

How long have you been living in Cambodia, and what led you to settle here?

Initially, I came to Cambodia for a holiday. But after a few months, I realized that Siem Reap was where I wanted to build my life. Here, I found a balance between France and Cambodia, between my two cultures and the two countries that are very close to my heart.

I also wanted to improve my Khmer, better understand my roots, and discover traditions that are important to preserve. Since arriving, I’ve met incredible people who have made me feel at home, as if surrounded by a second family. I am also a member of the coordination committee of the Siem Reap CCI.

What motivated you to run in this election? What was the trigger?

Having recently arrived in Cambodia, I still carry the energy of a “newcomer” and a strong desire to contribute: to help French citizens living here, support projects, and create new connections.

When I meet people who have lived in Cambodia for many years for various reasons, it moves me. It also shows me that Cambodia is not limited to the painful chapters of its history, but is a country rich in opportunities, encounters, and future prospects.

The French community in Cambodia is diverse: entrepreneurs, teachers, retirees, families, young expatriates. How do you plan to represent this diversity?

The strength of our “Citizen Relay of French Nationals in Cambodia” team lies precisely in its diversity. We have different backgrounds, generations, and perspectives, reflecting today’s French and Franco-Khmer community in Cambodia.

This complementarity allows us to stay close to a wide range of realities and support people with very different profiles. Above all, we share the same goal: to be accessible, helpful, and attentive to the needs of French citizens in Cambodia.

Relations between France and Cambodia are strengthening, and we share a common desire to further develop exchanges, particularly through the Francophonie Summit, which will take place in November this year.

What message would you like to address to French citizens in Cambodia who are still hesitating to vote?

Everyone’s commitment in this effort is sincere: we all share the desire to help this vibrant community grow. Cambodia is a country that constantly surprises us and teaches us a great deal, both personally and professionally.

It is also a warm country, where the hospitality, generosity, and spirit of sharing of its people leave a deep impression on those who choose to settle here. I believe it is important for everyone to take part in this election, make their voice heard, and contribute to promoting and strengthening our community.