[JURIST] Despite initial optimism, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen [official profile] has warned the international community that Cambodia [government website], one of Asia's poorest nations, cannot afford its share of the projected costs for an international criminal tribunal targeting Khmer Rouge leaders. Hun Sen said that Cambodia can only afford $1.5 million (USD) of the $13 million (USD) it originally planned to contribute. The United Nations [UN in Cambodia official website], footing the majority of the projected costs of the tribunal, has already raised the $43 million it was scheduled to provide. Hun Sen warned that unless the international community is willing to provide the remaining $11.5 million (USD), Cambodia will not be able to go forward with the tribunal. There is concern among proponents of the tribunal that the individuals likely to be targeted for criminal prosecution may die before the tribunal gets underway. JURIST's Paper Chase has continuing coverage of Cambodia [JURIST news archive]. BBC News has more.

Previously on JURIST's Paper Chase...

• Cambodia accepts Japanese offer to help fund Khmer Rouge trials
• Japan pledges gap money for Khmer Rouge genocide tribunal
• Cambodian PM opposes private funds for Khmer Rouge genocide trial
• Cambodian opposition calls for public contributions to Khmer Rouge trials fundCambodia appeals to UN for war crimes court funding