Cambodian lawmakers have passed a law allowing the citizenship of people accused of complicity with foreigners to be revoked, sparking concerns from human rights organizations.

The law, passed unanimously by Cambodia's National Assembly, allows the withdrawal of citizenship for those accused of foreign ties, but human rights groups warn that the vague wording of the law could be used against opponents and could seriously affect freedom of expression. Although the law has to be approved by the upper house of parliament and promulgated by the head of state, these steps are considered formalities. Cambodia is frequently criticized for repressing dissent and violating fundamental freedoms.