ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses the degree to which the assumptions were meaningful, in the context of utility derived for those powers which dominated its evolution; and in the context of their applicability to the Cambodian situation. It reviews the implications in the Khmer context of the failure to create a propitious settlement with Khmer interests as defining elements of that process. The chapter considers a departure point for later debates regarding the durability of the settlement. The Paris Peace Agreements (PPA) was not concluded to the absolute satisfaction of all Khmer parties few peace arrangements enjoy universal and comprehensive support. The terms of the PPA provided for an election, with certain technical and political parameters, and with certain conditions for judging credibility. The torturous experience of the formation of the Supreme National Council (SNC) reinforced the possible problems inherent in applying such a model of government to Cambodia.