The king is elected for life by the Royal Council of the Throne, which consists of several senior political and religious figures.

It declared that the king "shall reign, but not govern"[1] as well as being the "symbol of national unity and continuity".

This includes but is not limited to: The king also fulfils other roles not explicitly mentioned in the constitution in his capacity as head of state, for example, presiding over events of national significance[17] including religious ceremonies and traditions integral to the Khmer nation,[18] supporting humanitarian and philanthropic causes,[19] and representing Cambodia abroad when undertaking official visits overseas.

[20] Although there have been female rulers in the past, the 1993 constitution currently forbids women from succeeding to the throne.

[21] The Ministry of the Royal Palace, currently overseen by Minister Kong Sam Ol in conjunction with the Supreme Privy Advisory Council, formerly headed by the King's half-brother Prince Norodom Ranariddh and now headed by former Prime Minister Hun Sen assists and advises the king accordingly in carrying out his duties as monarch.