•Why is he on trial 30 years later?

The primary reason behind the delay has been the Cambodian governments desire to maintain legitimacy over the court. Further, this will be the first instance where civil law will be practiced in an international court — agreement between the UN and Cambodia on the nature of the court and its procedure have created complications. Agreement was finally reached in 2005 with the creation of a joint tribunal known as Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia. Following this period the decision of where the judges would come from has created confusion. As it stands there are 7 judges in the appeals court — four Cambodian and three international. The trial chamber comprises of 5 judges, three Cambodian and two foreign — there needs to be a majority agreement between the judges for any verdict to be passed. This trial will be a benchmark trial for the International Court of Justice and a step towards rehabilitating the excesses of the brutal regime.  

•What is the situation in Cambodia today? 

Following international intervention and UN monitoring, a democratic government has been set up in Cambodia. The simple fact that Duch is being brought to court is an indication of progress. Further, there are 4 others lined up for trial, one of whom was second in command.