Today, a new prime minister takes power in Cambodia for the first time in decades. Hun Sen, in charge since 1985, making him one of the world’s longest-serving heads of government, has resigned to make way for his eldest son Hun Manet to take over as part of a vast dynastic succession process. But who is Hun Sen? How did the “pagoda boy” rise from relative obscurity to join the Khmer Rouge and then help topple it, and become prime minister at the age of just 32? Cambodia has stabilized and prospered during his rule, which has also been defined by widespread corruption, human rights abuses, and democratic deterioration.

To discuss Hun Sen's rise and his accumulation of power, I'm joined by Sebastian Strangio, a journalist and the author of the definitive book on Hun Sen’s life, Hun Sen's Cambodia. Strangio is Southeast Asia editor at The Diplomat and also the author of In the Dragon’s Shadow: Southeast Asia in the Chinese Century. We discuss Hun Sen's early life; when and why he joined the Khmer Rouge; his rise to power in 1985; how he consolidated power afterward; his use of historical narratives; and his legacy.

Asian Centuries is a podcast that travels through the history of Asia, from the most famous events and fateful decisions to lesser-known conflicts, coups, and catastrophes. For regular updates and bonus material, subscribe at https://asiancenturiespod.substack.com/. Listen on your favorite podcast-hosting app or on YouTube.

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