Launched in 2008, the Cambodian Journal of Natural History (CJNH) was the first peer-reviewed periodical of its kind in Cambodia. The original idea for creating a national science journal sprang from the realization that while a great deal of research had been completed in Cambodia in the previous decade, very little of this work was available to other scientists or decision-makers in the country. Since its launch, 24 issues of the CJNH have been produced, with two issues published in most years and the credibility of the journal as an open-access platform for environmental science and evidence-based decision-making is reflected in its inclusion in the ASEAN Citation Index and testimonials submitted by government agencies.

Unlike many journals that seek to maximize their impact factor (the average number of citations received by an article in a given year) above all else, the primary mission of the CJNH has always been to encourage environmental researchers in Cambodia to share their findings and address the need for reliable information on Cambodian biodiversity. This is reflected in our editorial approach which seeks to gently coach early-career scientists to develop their writing skills and bring their findings to a wider audience. Importantly, and also unlike many peer-reviewed journals, the CJNH does not charge reader or author fees and solely relies upon sponsors for its publication and distribution to ensure as many people as possible have access.

The enormous changes occurring in Cambodia today and complex challenges now facing decision-makers and stakeholders at all levels mean that access to reliable information on the status, use,, and management of biodiversity is needed more than ever. As a result, we especially welcome papers that enhance understanding of conservation needs and have the potential to improve conservation management in the Kingdom. We accept two types of original papers, namely short communications (main text 300–2,000 words) and full papers (main text 2,000–7,000 words) and authors should carefully read our Instructions for Authors before preparing their manuscripts. These can be submitted at any time to Editor.CJNH@gmail.com or Editor.CJNH@rupp.edu.kh and we are very happy to comment on draft manuscripts and answer questions.