Cambodia

Cambodia's monarchy is an elective monarchy, meaning that the king is not necessarily the hereditary ruler by birthright but is chosen by a council of noble leaders. This council, made up of senior officials and members of the royal family, elects a king who must be a male descendant of the historical royal line. The current king, Norodom Sihamoni, was elected in 2004 following the abdication of his father, King Norodom Sihanouk. While the monarchy is revered and plays a significant cultural role, Cambodia is also a constitutional monarchy where the king's powers are largely ceremonial.