British Book Launch: A Tiger Rules the Mountain - Cambodia's Pursuit of Democracy

A special conversation event for the British launch of A Tiger Rules the Mountain by Gordon Conochie 

Not in Perth or can't make it? Join live via the Facebook event

About A Tiger Rules the Mountain

Cambodia’s Hun Sen was the world’s longest-serving prime minister, holding power since 1985 until recently passing the role of Prime Minister to his eldest son. Sen’s rule came under threat in 2013, however, when the exiled opposition leader, Sam Rainsy, unexpectedly returned just before a national election. One hundred thousand supporters hailed him at the airport as protests swept the country. On election day, millions voted for change. A Tiger Rules the Mountain tells the story of that election and the subsequent multi-year wrestle for power, right through to the dramatic events of the present day.

This is modern Cambodia as revealed by government officials, journalists, factory workers and opposition politicians. Cambodia’s history is riven with trauma yet there is a swelling appetite for change. A Tiger Rules the Mountain explores whether that change, as the West and China vie for influence, will be one of greater democracy or ever-tightening authoritarianism.

Watch the video trailer of the explosive events that inspired the book

Praise for A Tiger Rules the Mountain - Cambodia's Pursuit of Democracy

"An intriguing kaleidoscope of Cambodian voices, giving enriching insights into why the country is still so far from becoming a true democracy." (Gareth Evans, former Australian Foreign Minister)

"Rich with the voices of ordinary people, A Tiger Rules the Mountain is vital reading". (Sebastian Strangio, journalist and author)

"This gripping story is a vital piece of narrative non-fiction and social history." (Tom Doig, award winning author)

"A must-read, at times gripping and remarkable ringside view of the last decade of Cambodia’s fight for the survival of democracy."' (Prof. Sophal Ear, Arizona State University)

"A tour de force. Conochie skillfully weaves together a remarkable array of individual voices in a riveting contribution." (Sue Coffey, author of Seeking Justice in Cambodia)

"An extraordinarily compelling tale of the courage it takes to stand up to one of the world’s most repressive and corrupt regimes." (Mary Ann Jolley, Reporter, Al Jazeera)

Running Order

• Drink: 4pm
• Conversation and Audience Q&A: 4.30pm
• Book signing: 5.30pm