United Nations in Cambodia

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Cambodia. Cambodia has added an 18th goal to its localized version of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)- "End the negative impact of mins/ERW and promote victim assistance".

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02 January 2026

ACT NOW campaign

ActNow is the United Nations campaign to inspire people to act for the Sustainable Development Goals.

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Press Release

19 March 2026

UNODC launches #TrappedInScamCrime campaign in Cambodia to combat trafficking for forced criminality

Phnom Penh, 19 March 2026. - The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific (UNODC ROSEAP) organized an awareness-raising event on trafficking in persons for forced criminality in scam centres and officially launched UNODC’s #TrappedInScamCrime Campaign in Cambodia.The event brought together nearly 130 participants, including ambassadors, representatives of diplomatic missions, government institutions, international organizations, civil society, students and media.The event opened with remarks by the H.E. Mok Chansothea, Secretary of State of the Office of the Council of Ministers and Deputy Chief of the Secretariat of the Ad Hoc Commission on Combating Online Scams (CCOS). Ms. Vladanka Andreeva, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cambodia, underscored that trafficking for forced criminality in scam operations is rapidly increasing across Southeast Asia, with thousands of victims deceived, coerced, and exploited through digital platforms. This growing human rights crisis requires victim-centered responses, recognizing those affected as victims of trafficking and ensuring their protection and support. Also speaking at the opening session, Ms. Kelly Geoghegan, Political Officer, Embassy of the United States of America in Cambodia, highlighted her country stands ready to continue working alongside UNODC and the International Justice Mission (IJM), as well as with their regional partners to raise awareness, strengthen prevention, improve law enforcement cooperation, and support survivors. During the event, experts from Southeast Asia presented the regional context of trafficking in persons for forced criminality at scam centres and introduced the #TrappedInScamCrime campaign. Insights on creating safer digital spaces were also shared by Meta.The event featured a panel discussion on Strengthening Prevention and Victim Protection, with participation of speakers from the International Organization of Migration (IOM) and the CSO Awareness Against Human Trafficking (HAART) Kenya. A general discussion was also held to exchange views on solutions to promote community participation and collaboration in implementing the Campaign in Cambodia.“Across the region, we are witnessing industrial-scale human exploitation,” says Dr. Rebecca Miller, UNODC’s Regional Coordinator for countering Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling. “Trafficking victims are being forced to scam others for profit, and they are often the ones who are facing the legal consequences. We must stop treating survivors like suspects and work to dismantle the transnational organized crime networks reaping billions through criminal actions.” The #TrappedInScamCrime campaign, launched by UNODC in partnership with IJM and funded by the Government of the United States, is being implemented across the region to raise awareness, strengthen prevention, and promote collective action in response to trafficking for forced criminality. The campaign calls for the engagement of governments, civil society, digital platforms and young people. “This is about prevention and protection,” Dr. Miller stated. “UNODC invites civil society, digital platforms, youth leaders, and governments to amplify the #TrappedInScamCrime campaign.”At the event, participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination to effectively prevent and address trafficking in persons into scam centres.###Join UNODC’s Trapped in Scam Crime campaign to stop trafficking in persons for forced criminality in Southeast Asia.

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Speech

19 March 2026

UNODC Awareness Raising Campaign Launch #TrappedInScamCrime

[Check against delivery] Excellency Mok Chan Sothea, Secretary of State of the Office of the Council of Ministers and Deputy Chief of the Ad Hoc Commission on Combating Online Scams (CCOS);Your Excellencies, AmbassadorsMs. Kelly Geoghegan, Political Officer, Embassy of the United States of America in CambodiaDistinguished participants, esteemed colleagues, partners;Ladies and gentlemen;Good morning,On behalf of the United Nations Country Team in Cambodia, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to the national launch of the regional awareness campaign on trafficking in persons for forced criminality in scam centres - #TrappedInScamCrime.Today marks an important step forward in our collective efforts to confront this growing form of exploitation. This campaign, developed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific, in partnership with the International Justice Mission, the U.S. Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, and with support from META, reflects the power of collaboration. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Government of Cambodia, particularly the Ad Hoc Commission on Combating Online Scams for its leadership and engagement.Over recent years, we have witnessed a troubling shift in the trafficking patterns. Organized criminal groups are exploiting digital technologies and social vulnerabilities to force thousands of people – women, men, and children – into scam operations. UN analysis shows this form of trafficking has grown rapidly across Southeast Asia, affecting victims from dozens of countries. Survivors report deception, coercion, violence, forced labour, and ill‑treatment – abuses that amount to slavery or servitude. Many were simply seeking employment, and most were recruited through people they trusted: family members, friends, co‑workers, or online acquaintances. This is not only a criminal justice challenge. It is fundamentally a human rights crisis. Addressing it requires that the rights, dignity, and protection of victims remain at the centre of our responses. Individuals deceived or coerced into scam operations must be recognized as victims of trafficking, not punished as perpetrators. The non‑punishment principle, enshrined in international frameworks, is essential to ensure survivors can safely seek help, access support, and rebuild their lives.Yet the problem is not abating. Scam centres continue to expand, with larger compounds and new locations. People worldwide are being defrauded, and the number of trafficking victims is not decreasing. This reality underscores the urgency of prevention, protection, and accountability.The #TrappedInScamCrime campaign embodies a survivor‑centered approach. From the outset, survivors have guided our understanding of recruitment, deception, and coercion. Their courage has shaped the tone and direction of this initiative. Campaign materials, available in nine languages including Khmer and English, will reach people where they are – on social media, at airports and border crossings, in schools and universities, and through trusted community actors.Prevention also requires strengthened cooperation with technology companies and online platforms, whose services are often misused by traffickers for fraudulent recruitment. Consistent with international standards on business and human rights, companies have an important role to play in identifying and addressing risks of exploitation linked to their platforms.Distinguished colleagues,This campaign is about empowerment, prevention, and solidarity. It is about equipping individuals and families with clear information, helping communities recognize warning signs, and reaffirming our shared commitment to protect human rights.I extend my sincere appreciation to the Government of Cambodia, UNODC, and all partners whose expertise and dedication made this initiative possible. Together, we can ensure these messages reach those most at risk and build a safer, more resilient region.The launch of #TrappedInScamCrime is only the beginning. Let us move forward with determination to end trafficking for forced criminality and to uphold the rights and dignity of every person.Thank you!***Full Press Release

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Story

13 January 2026

Secretary-General Appoints Vladanka Andreeva of North Macedonia United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cambodia

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Vladanka Andreeva of North Macedonia as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cambodia, with the host Government’s approval. She took up her post on 10 January. Ms. Andreeva brings over 25 years of experience in international development, humanitarian coordination, strategic advocacy and partnership building across diverse regions and contexts. She most recently served as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, where she led the United Nations country team in advancing national sustainable development priorities, including in a post-conflict recovery context. During her tenure in Azerbaijan, Ms. Andreeva provided strategic leadership to support system-wide United Nations engagement in preparations for the twenty-ninth Conference of the Parties [to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change] (COP29), promoting an inclusive and development-centred climate agenda. She also advanced work on sustainable urbanisation, strengthening partnerships and supporting national dialogue in the lead-up to the thirteenth World Urban Forum. Previously, Ms. Andreeva held several senior roles with the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), including as Country Director in Cambodia, where she also provided leadership for the UN system’s COVID-19 response and coordination efforts, as well as serving as Strategic Intervention Adviser at the UNAIDS Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, and Monitoring and Evaluation Team Lead for UNAIDS in Viet Nam. Ms. Andreeva also served with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as a Policy Adviser for Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States, following her role as Adviser to the United Nations Resident Coordinator in North Macedonia. Earlier, she supported humanitarian operations with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Prior to joining the United Nations, Ms. Andreeva worked with the non-profit organization Pharmaciens Sans Frontières, coordinating humanitarian relief for refugee communities. Ms. Andreeva holds a bachelor’s degree in dental medicine and a master’s degree in public health.

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Story

07 November 2025

Breaking barriers for peace: Cambodian Officer Nget Chansomphos leads the way in demining and peacekeeping

Today, she is not just an expert in one of the world’s most dangerous professions, but a two-time UN peacekeeping veteran, having served with distinction in the Central African Republic (CAR). Her journey from the mine-scarred landscapes of Cambodia to becoming a senior technical authority on the global stage is a testament to the mastery, courage and determination women bring to peace and security.“The reason I chose the mine-clearance field is because my mother told me that Cambodia was once in the grip of war,” she explains. The shadow of the brutal Khmer Rouge regime and the subsequent civil conflict left Cambodia saturated with landmines and unexploded ordnance – a constant, deadly threat to peace even decades later.“When my daughter wanted to work in demining, as a mother, at first I was afraid,” her mother recalls. “I thought of how landmines are not normal things because I lived through the Pol Pot era, with mines exploding.” Despite those fears, she chose to respect and actively guide her daughter, encouraging her to learn about the country’s needs and to pursue formal training. Chansomphos says that support gave her the strength to persevere. After completing her basic military courses, Chansomphos entered specialized mine-clearance training. “When I started, I did not know much about ordnance or terminology,” she admits. “It was difficult at first, but through training and experience I learned to recognize and safely destroy them.” But her persistence turned uncertainty into confidence. “The biggest pride I have is that I can detonate ordnance with my own hands.” After gaining proficiency in explosive disposal, Chansomphos expanded her skills by learning to operate a disruption machine, a remotely operated robot used to destroy ordnance without risking human lives. “When I was deployed and saw it in action, I asked my commander if I could learn. I was determined to master it.” She soon became one of her team’s key remotely operated vehicle specialists, using the machine to enter dangerous areas, assess terrain and clear safe paths for others.Between 2022 and 2025, Chansomphos served on two mine-clearance missions in the Central African Republic, where her technical skills and leadership proved invaluable. "Our activities included clearing mines in communities and in areas where ordnance was found," she explains. "Because some locations are very high risk, I am often on standby to operate the robot and survey the path so the demolition team can enter safely."Initially, she worried about being treated differently as the only woman on her team. “I thought they might discriminate, but they supported me and praised me for being brave. We do not distinguish between men’s work and women’s work. We work together to get the job done.” Despite progress, women like Chansomphos remain rare in the sector. As Kosal Malinda, Deputy Director General of the National Centre for Peacekeeping Force, Mine and ERW Clearance (NPMEC), explains: “Women still face barriers to leadership in peacekeeping, and many leave missions due to family responsibilities. We are working on a strategy to better support and retain them, recognising their vital role at home and abroad.”Between 2022 and 2024, the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) conducted a barriers assessment— in cooperation with CPCS, UN Women and supported by the Elsie Initiative Fund—to expand the deployment of uniformed women to UN peace operations. The findings are now guiding gender-responsive recruitment, planning, training and deployment.And there has already been an uptick in uniformed women in RCAF UN deployments, rising from 16.5 per cent in 2022 to 20 per cent in 2024. “Chansomphos’ story shows how targeted support and policy change can remove barriers and create real opportunities for women to serve and lead in peacekeeping,” says Sophea Khun, UN Women Cambodia Country Programme Coordinator.Now a Mine Detection Dog handler, Chansomphos supports the search and detection phase of demining operations. She reflects on her journey with quiet pride, echoed by her mother: “We gained honour, my child gained honour, and the nation also gained honour.”Her goals are clear, a world without explosives and a security sector where gender is not a barrier to leadership. “I appeal to all leaders to empower women and avoid the discrimination that suggests women cannot do this work,” she says. “The truth is that women absolutely can.”

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26 March 2026

One Meal, Many Stories - A Reflection from WFP Leadership

During the first lady of Cambodia, Her Excellency Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet’s visit to Prasat Cheang Torng Primary School, the simple act of sharing with children a bowl of food became something transformational. In that moment, it was clear how leadership can turn a meal into the foundation for a healthier, stronger Cambodia—proof that the WFP School Meals Programme nourishes more than bodies; it weaves together communities, connects generations, and invests in the nation’s future. When I arrived in Cambodia in August 2025 as Country Director of the World Food Programme, I quickly realized that the story of school meals here is not just about food — it is about transformation. Since its introduction in 1999, the programme has grown from a traditional food-import model—including early deliveries of canned fish—into a national homegrown model that sources fresh, local ingredients and links classrooms with communities, farmers and families. For over two decades, WFP has served over 990 million school meals to more than 2 million children while expanding the reach of school meals to schools across the country. What began as a modest food assistance effort has grown into a homegrown solution that nourishes young minds, bolsters education, and strengthens rural food system. Walking into schools today, I see the building blocks laid over two decades. I meet with commune chiefs, teachers, cooks, farmers, business owners, and parents who once benefitted from school meals as children — and who now play vital roles in sustaining the programme. It is a living cycle: the past investing in the future, and the present shaping a brighter Cambodia. This journey has been made possible because of strong government leadership. The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, the National Social Protection Council, and other relevant ministries and institutions supporting the programme, together with committed partners and WFP teams — past and present — have worked hand in hand to build a system that not only nourishes children but also aligns with Cambodia’s broader human capital development goal, linking education, nutrition and local agriculture in ways that strengthen communities and future prospects. The transition is well underway. By 2028, all programme schools will be fully under the Royal Government of Cambodia’s ownership. This is not simply a handover; it is a tested model of sustainability and a testament to national commitment. Already, Cambodia is financing and running 70 percent of schools previously managed by WFP, a clear signal that the country is investing in—and owning—its national school meals programme. This progress is backed by championship at the highest levels of Government, with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, the National Social Protection Council, line ministries, and now the First Lady working alongside committed partners and WFP teams to build a system that links education, nutrition, and local agriculture—strengthening communities while advancing human capital. That leadership was vividly on display during the recent visit of Her Excellency Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet, Cambodia’s First Lady, to Prasat Cheang Torng Primary School. Watching her serve meals to children was a powerful reminder of what is at stake. In her remarks, she framed school meals as a pillar of Cambodia’s human capital agenda and social protection system—a multisector effort connecting education, health, nutrition, agriculture, and local economies, from school gardens to community self-reliance. Her message was clear: “children are the core strength and the great hope of our nation.” By expressing her intent to serve as Honorary Chair of the National School Feeding Steering Committee and to expand the programme nationwide, Her Excellency affirmed that high-level championship is the engine of delivery. During the same visit, His Excellency Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport, underscored that school meals sit at the heart of Cambodia’s long-term vision: reducing inequality, improving learning outcomes, and ensuring that every child—no matter where they are born—has the nourishment needed to thrive. Together, these commitments highlight that Cambodia is setting the pace in the region, leading a genuine systems transformation that prioritizes investment in people while powering rapid economic growth. For over a decade, schools like Prasat Cheang Torng have shown what is possible — higher attendance, healthier children, and stronger communities. Today, school meals are no longer a standalone initiative; they are part of Cambodia’s integrated social protection system, linking education, nutrition, and local agriculture. To continue on this journey, I see how WFP can convene all the necessary actors to expand and strengthen a programme that should become universal. As I reflect on these moments — the leadership, the partnership, the pride of communities, and the bright faces of children who know they are cared for — one thing is clear: school meals are far more than a daily routine. They are a national commitment to equity, dignity, and opportunity. With continued investment and collective resolve, Cambodia is not only nourishing its children today but laying the foundation for a healthier, smarter, and more resilient generation. The future is already taking shape — one meal, one child, one community at a time.

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23 March 2026

Climate-resilient pipe water lets children learn

7 January 2025, Ratanakiri – 39-year-old Huong Meng, a mother of four, easily recalls a time when fetching water meant an hour-long walk to the nearest stream. “It was very hard because at that time I would bring my children with me, and one of them was very young so I had to carry both her and the kapah,” she says in her native Tompuon language. A kapah is a handwoven rattan basket commonly used among indigenous communities in Cambodia’s northeastern provinces, including Ratanakiri. In remote communities without access to water at home, it’s women and children who are often left with the responsibility of collecting water for the household, weighing down the kapah with as many water-filled plastic bottles as they can carry.During the dry season, when drought dried up the water Meng could access nearer to her home, she would need to make the trip multiple times per day to collect enough for her growing family. Her older children, then eight and nine years old, would also help out with this grueling chore, leaving them exhausted with little time to focus on going to school.As a result, her eldest daughter dropped out after completing only Grade 1. “I regret that,” she says. “I've now committed that the other three children must go to school.” Today, this commitment is made much easier. Two months ago, her house was connected to a community pipe water system supported by UNICEF, with funding from AEON 1% Club Foundation. Today, her family can access water right at home, at the easy touch of a tap.“I was so happy when I heard that the community was going to build a water system,” she says. “I was also worried that the stream water was dirty because my children used to get sick. So now I'm less worried.”In Cambodia, despite an increasing number of households gaining access to basic water services, many families still rely on unprotected sources like wells, rivers, and springs. Only 19 per cent of the rural population have access to safely managed water services, putting children at major risk of diseases like diarrhea, which can cause stunting, impaired brain development, and even death.Extreme weather exacerbated by climate change, including prolonged periods of drought during the dry season and increased rainfall and flash flooding during the rainy season, is making it even harder for communities to access clean water and increases these risks for vulnerable children. The Children’s Climate Risk Index (CCRI) for Cambodia reveals that around 80,000 children under 18 in Ratanakiri, which is 89 per cent of children in the province, are extremely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and environmental hazards because of a lack of access to essential services. With UNICEF support, over 175,000 Cambodians have been reached with clean water through private and community pipe systems and bottled water enterprises. The climate-resilient systems, meaning they are powered by solar energy and can withstand flooding and drought, ensure families can access safe, clean water year-round – saving time, improving health, and giving children a chance to stay in school. “For my system, we can supply sufficient water to all households in the village, both during the rainy and dry season,” says Joy Soth, Chief of the water management committee in Samotr Leu village. Community-managed pipe systems are supported by UNICEF in remote, hard-to-reach areas where private water suppliers see little financial benefit to expand their operations.“If we want to take a shower, we take a shower. If we want to clean the dishes, we clean the dishes. If we want to cook, we cook. We no longer worry about the shortage of water.”As of January 2025, more than 60 out of 105 households in Samotr Leu village have been connected to the pipe system, with more connecting day by day.“On behalf of the committee, we are committed to urging the families in each household to connect to the pipe by early 2025,” says Soth, who’s seen the benefit on his own family, too. “For myself, both as a committee member and as a villager, I’m very – 100 per cent – happy. My children no longer struggle once they come back from school, as they no longer need to collect water, which is far from the house.” Huong Meng says she loves that she now has more time to spend with her family, and that her three remaining children are now regularly attending school. Her 16-year-old is in Grade 11, while her 14-year-old and 12-year-old are both studying in Grade 3. She won’t let them drop out. “I want to see my children become teachers or doctors,” she says.

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25 February 2026

Advancing Integrated Peacekeeping Capacity through the Triangular Partnership Programme (TPP)

The Triangular Partnership Programme (TPP) is a UN-led initiative that delivers specialised peacekeeping capacity-building through partnerships between deploying Troop-Contributing Countries (TCCs), supporting Member States, and the UN Secretariat. As of 2025, TPP primarily supports training across three core pillars—Engineering, Medical, and Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) and Camp Security Technologies, while also facilitating operational support initiatives of telemedicine to enhance the safety of troops and effectiveness of missions globally. As TPP, which recently celebrated its 10th anniversary (2015-2025), moves into its second decade, Southeast Asia continues to provide a base for delivering peacekeeping training through the engineering rotational hosting cycle in the ASEAN region. Under this approach, interested ASEAN Member States take turns hosting TPP-supported courses, strengthening regional ownership, training continuity, and long-term sustainability. Cambodia, TPP’s host in the region from 2024 to 2026, has played a central role in integrated and multinational training delivery through the rotational framework.Cambodia’s role within the ASEAN rotationCambodia’s engagement with UN Peacekeeping first began in 1992. As a host country to the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) from 1992-1993, Cambodia received peacekeeping support during the country’s transition to peace. Building on this experience, Cambodia has contributed its own uniformed personnel to UN peacekeeping missions worldwide since 2006 - focusing on engineering, mine action, and military police deployments.Cambodia first began its hosting engagement with TPP in 2023 after hosting an intermediate-level Heavy Engineering Equipment (HEE) Operators’ Course delivered in partnership with the Republic of Korea. While the course was delivered at the national level, all participating trainees were subsequently deployed to UN peacekeeping missions, including MINUSCA and UNIFIL. This engagement laid the foundation for Cambodia’s role as a regional training host and demonstrated its capacity to support mission-targeted engineering training for peacekeeping personnel. Following earlier training rotations in the ASEAN region hosted by Vietnam and Indonesia, Cambodia assumed the role of TPP host from 2024, coordinating multiple TPP training courses for TCCs across ASEAN and neighbouring regions. With Thailand and the Philippines committed to host future rotations from 2027 onward, Cambodia’s 2024–2026 hosting period represents a key phase in a longer-term regional pathway for ASEAN-led peacekeeping capacity-building.Integrated multinational delivery: a milestone for interoperability (2024)A significant milestone was reached in 2024, when Cambodia hosted the region’s first cross-pillar TPP training course, delivering trainings across multiple pillars simultaneously. This training cycle comprised an HEE Operators’ Course and an Explosive Hazards Awareness Training (EHAT) for selected Asia-Pacific TCCs, alongside a Field Medical Assistants Course (FMAC) for Cambodian personnel. Across all three courses – both those delivered to national and international trainees; participating troops were subsequently deployed to UN peacekeeping missions, including MINUSCA and UNIFIL. While each course maintained its own curriculum, objectives, and target audience, they were conducted concurrently and concluded with a validation exercise designed around shared mission scenarios. The 2024 training programme was co-delivered by a multinational team with instructors from Australia, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, reflecting strong cooperation among TPP’s supporting Member States. By familiarising participants with how engineering tasks, explosive hazard awareness, and medical readiness intersect in the field, the integrated training format strengthened interoperability and supported safer peacekeeping and conditions for troops. Building on the success of 2024, Cambodia continued hosting cross-pillar trainings from April to June and from November to December 2025, with trainers from Australia, Japan and the Republic of Korea, and participation from ASEAN Member States and other countries across Asia. The former period featured the HEE Operators’ Course and EHAT, while the latter, as in the previous year, focused on delivering complementary pillar-specific training in parallel, with both periods reinforcing cross-pillar coordination through mission-oriented scenarios. Through these efforts, Cambodia hosted a total of three multi-pillar TPP training courses in 2024 and 2025, integrating counter-improvised explosive device considerations in partnership with UNMAS. Advancing quality peacekeeping through partnershipCambodia’s experience reflects a broader evolution within TPP over its first decade: a shift from stand-alone technical instruction toward integrated, multinational training delivery that emphasises co-delivery across Member States, alignment with current missions, and bolstered global peacekeeping capacity amid global uncertainty.TPP’s multinational training teams played an active role in coordinating training delivery and supporting the UN Secretariat’s mission. A trainee from Bhutan who participated in the HEE Operators’ Course and EHAT in Cambodia in November/December 2025 highlighted this collaborative approach noting that “Working through each exercise alongside others helped turn uncertainty into clarity and reinforced a strong sense of progress.” From the host-country perspective, Cambodia’s National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces, Mines and Explosive Remnants of War Clearance (NPMEC) emphasised the programme’s contribution as: “The UNTPP training in Cambodia significantly enhanced professional skills across the three pillars of HEE, FMAC, and EHAT. The programme strengthened cooperation and enhanced cultural diversity awareness among participants from different nations and religious backgrounds, contributing to mutual understanding and effective teamwork in multinational training programmes.” Together, these perspectives highlight how TPP integrated trainings benefit both trainee peacekeepers and host institutions. For trainees, integrated courses offer practical, field-based experience, exposure to multinational working environments, and the opportunity to build crucial real-world skills before mission deployment. For host countries, delivering training demonstrates their leadership and concrete contribution to strengthening UN peacekeeping, while also enhancing national capacity, facilitating knowledge transfer, and reinforcing regional cooperation. ConclusionAs TPP enters its second decade, Cambodia’s role as a rotational host in the ASEAN region from 2024 to 2026 perfectly exemplifies the value of TPP’s multinational, concurrent training model in strengthening peacekeeping operational preparedness. These efforts are aligned with broader ASEAN–UN cooperation frameworks, including the ASEAN–UN Plan of Action (2026–2030), which recognised the TPP as a key mechanism for strengthening peacekeeping capacity across the region. With future rotational hosting commitments confirmed for 2027 onwards, the peacekeeping training rotational model in the ASEAN region provides a sustainable pathway for continued peacekeeping capacity growth across the Asia Pacific region. Cambodia’s contribution during this cycle underscores how structured partnership—rooted in shared responsibility and regional ownership—can deliver tangible outcomes for quality peacekeeping.

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20 January 2026

Humanitarian Response Forum Situation Reports: Cambodia–Thailand Border Situation

Communities along the Cambodia–Thailand border have experienced displacement and disruption linked to the evolving border situation, resulting in humanitarian needs in several provinces. In response, humanitarian partners in Cambodia are working closely with national and local authorities to assess needs, coordinate assistance, and support affected families. The Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) brings together United Nations agencies, non-governmental organizations and humanitarian partners to coordinate action, share information and support joint planning across sectors. Through the Forum, partners align humanitarian efforts with national systems and priorities. To support coordination and shared situational awareness, the HRF produces regular Situation Reports on the Cambodia–Thailand border situation. These reports consolidate information from field assessments and partner updates, providing an overview of population movements, priority needs and assistance delivered across key sectors, including shelter, water and sanitation, health, food security, education and protection. The Situation Reports help inform decision-making and ensure timely, evidence-based humanitarian responses as the situation evolves. Below are links to the Humanitarian Response Forum Situation Reports on the Cambodia–Thailand border situation. Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 2: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (8 August 2025): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308535-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-2-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-8 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 3: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (15 August 2025): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308536-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-3-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-15 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 4: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (22 August 2025 ): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308537-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-4-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-22 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 5: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (29 August 2025): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308538-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-5-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-29 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 6: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (5 September 2025): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308539-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-6-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-5 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 7: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (12 September 2025): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308540-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-7-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-12 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 8: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (3 October 2025): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308541-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-8-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-3 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 9: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (17th October 2025): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308543-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-9-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-17th Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 11: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (12 December 2025): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308544-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-11-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-12 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 12: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (27 December 2025): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308545-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-12-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-27 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 13: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (2 January 2026): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308547-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-13-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-2 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 14: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (9 January 2026): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308548-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-14-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-9 Humanitarian Response Forum (HRF) - Situation Report 15: Cambodia-Thailand Border Situation (16th January 2026): https://cambodia.un.org/en/308549-humanitarian-response-forum-hrf-situation-report-15-cambodia-thailand-border-situation-16th

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18 September 2025

A New Life in the Midst of Unrest: Seyha’s First Days in Banteay Ampil Camp

Banteay Ampil Camp, Oddar Meanchey Province—Just two days old, baby Seyha rests nestled between his mother and grandmother. His tiny form is both fragile and glowing with life, against the backdrops of displacement and uncertainty. His mother, 20-year-old Khun Khal, cradles him gently inside a makeshift shelter stitched together with a thin tarp. The memory of gunfire on the night of 24 July still echoes in her mind. Alongside her husband, 20-year-old Pek Chhin, and her mother, 42-year-old Ken Leav, she fled their home after the abrupt clash of artillery fire shattered the quiet of their village. The journey was chaotic: rain mingled with smoke; thunder mimicked gunfire; and fears clung to every step. Families fled with only what they could carry in their arms. “It felt like ages. We left in the morning and arrived at the camp at night. I was terrified – my daughter was due to give birth any day,” says Leav. A week later, Seyha was born when they were in the camp. Life here is harsh. Monsoon rains soak shelter at night, turning the floor wet and muddy and the air chilling. Nights are long and sleepless. Bathing is a daily challenge. Chhin navigates slippery trails to fetch water from communal water points, balancing what he could carry with anxious care. In the dim shelter, under Leav’s watchful gaze, Khal washes Seyha with just a few sips. Chhin’s voice cracks as whispers, “I’m scared my wife and baby will fall ill without enough clean water.” Food is basic and monotonous—rice, oil, noodles, dried fish. Fresh vegetables, fruits, or milk rarely make their way into the camp. Khal worries if her own limited nutrition is enough to nourish Seyha through breastfeeding.Health risks loom large: diarrhea, fever, cough sweep through the crowded, damp camps. No malnutrition screening is in place, even as Cambodia’s wasting rate hovers near 10 percent—a silent threat to newborns like Seyha. Yet, in the quiet rhythm of Seyha’s breath, Khal looks softly at the baby and murmurs: “I only want him to feel love, not fear.” Her gaze shifts to Leav, sitting silently nearby, offering strength in absence of infrastructure, and Chhin, whose every careful move spells love in action, not words. In that whispered phrase lies something profound: a newborn’s soft breath could outlive conflict—if we help make sure of it. Read WFP Cambodia Country Brief June-August 2025

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Press Release

23 March 2026

Cambodia Launches WISE JP to Expand Climate Resilient Water and Renewable Energy Services

Funded by the UN Joint Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Fund, the WISE JP introduces a pioneering financial model that combines commercial and low-interest capital - a revolving blended‑finance facility - dedicated to ensuring climate‑smart water systems.By blending concessional and commercial capital, the facility lowers financing costs for Private Water Operators (PWOs) while delivering technical support to those PWOs, financial institutions, and the Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia (CGCC). This assistance is vital as 1.9 million children—over one‑third of Cambodia’s child population—live in communes facing high climate risk, including recurring droughts, floods, and limited WASH services[1].H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, said: “Cambodia’s private water operators play a vital role in serving our people, particularly in areas not reached by public water utilities. Yet they continue facing challenges accessing affordable finance for infrastructure upgrades and renewable energy adoption. The WISE JP represents an important milestone in our national efforts to modernize the water supply sector, expand clean water access, and advance our climate commitments. By bringing innovation, investment, and long‑term sustainability to Cambodia’s water supply system, this partnership with the United Nations in Cambodia is expected to help improving water services for over 200,000 people across the country.”“Access to climate‑resilient water services is essential for family well‑being and for children’s health and learning. Through the WISE JP, Cambodia is taking a bold step to ensure that children and families—especially those in hard‑to‑reach areas—benefit from affordable and sustainable clean water powered by renewable energy. The United Nations in Cambodia, through UNICEF and UNCDF, is proud to work alongside MISTI and our partners to unlock innovative financing that accelerates progress toward the SDGs and strengthens the resilience of communities across the country,” said Ms. Vladanka Andreeva, UN Resident Coordinator in Cambodia. The Programme supports Cambodia’s progress toward the SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation) and SDG 13 (climate action) by mobilizing private investment in renewable‑energy‑powered water supply infrastructure, especially solar pumping and digital water management technologies.The WISE JP will operate under a Steering Committee to ensure strong government leadership and alignment with Cambodia Sustainable Development Goals (CSDGs), Cambodia’s National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).###About the Joint SDG Fund: All joint programmes of the Joint SDG Fund are led by UN Resident Coordinators and implemented by the agencies, funds, and programmes of the United Nations development system. With sincere appreciation for the contributions from the European Union and Governments of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland for a transformative movement towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.About UNICEF: UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. For more information about UNICEF and its work in Cambodia, visit: www.unicef.org.kh Follow UNICEF in Cambodia on Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram | LinkedIn | Threads | TikTokAbout UNCDF: The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) mobilizes and catalyses an increase in capital flows for impactful investments in high-risk markets, especially in Least Developed Countries, Small Island Developing States and countries in special situations. By crowding in capital through the deployment of risk-absorbing financial instruments, mechanisms and structuring advisory, UNCDF contributes to job creation, sustained economic growth and equitable prosperity in more than 70 countries. Learn more at uncdf.org or follow @UNCDF. [1] Children’s Climate Risk Index for Cambodia, 2021.

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Press Release

21 January 2026

UN Resident Coordinator Presents Credentials to the Royal Government of Cambodia

During the meeting, Ms. Andreeva expressed appreciation to the Royal Government of Cambodia for the long-standing cooperation with the United Nations (UN). She reaffirmed the UN’s strong commitment to supporting national priorities and accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals through a reinforced development partnership.Within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2024-2028), Ms. Andreeva highlighted strategic priorities including human capital development, universal social protection, climate resilience, and digital transformation. These pillars are designed to bolster Cambodia’s transition and its preparatory roadmap for graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.She emphasized that the UN has repositioned itself as a strategic partner for Cambodia, aligning with global reforms to deliver integrated, high-level policy advice and innovation that is specifically tailored to support the country’s ambitious development path.Underscoring the UN’s evolved role, Ms. Andreeva stated:"It is a privilege to lead the United Nations team in Cambodia at such a transformative moment. As Cambodia prepares for its graduation from the LDC status, the UN’s commitment to a ‘One UN’ approach is more vital than ever. Our focus remains on supporting the Royal Government’s Pentagonal Strategy, investing in human capital, driving a green and digital transition, and ensuring that the most vulnerable communities are not left behind. I look forward to deepening our partnership to build an inclusive and resilient future for all Cambodians."Addressing current challenges, Ms. Andreeva also discussed the UN’s ongoing humanitarian and recovery support for families affected by recent border conflict. She emphasized that peace and stability remain the indispensable foundations for sustainable development.The United Nations remains a dedicated partner to the Royal Government and the people of Cambodia, working together to deliver an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for all. About Ms. Vladanka Andreeva:Ms. Vladanka Andreeva brings over 25 years of leadership in international development, humanitarian coordination, and strategic advocacy. Most recently, she served as the UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, where she guided the UN Country Team through a critical post-conflict recovery period and provided the strategic vision for the UN’s engagement in COP29, championing an inclusive, development-centered climate agenda.Ms. Andreeva possesses extensive experience across the Asia-Pacific region. She notably served as the UNAIDS Country Director in Cambodia and held senior roles within the UNAIDS Regional Office, as well as the country office in Viet Nam.Her diverse career also includes serving as a UNDP Policy Adviser for Europe and the CIS, alongside humanitarian leadership roles with WHO, OCHA, and Pharmaciens Sans Frontières. Ms. Andreeva holds a Master’s degree in Public Health and a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Medicine.

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Press Release

20 November 2025

CAMBODIA LAUNCHES NATIONAL ROADMAP TO SAVE LIVES WITH PEOPLE-CENTRED EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS

The roadmap, developed through collaboration among government ministries, UN agencies, and civil society, aligns with global Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL) standards and Cambodia’s Disaster Management Law. It is built on four key pillars: risk knowledge, observation & forecasting, warning dissemination & communication, and preparedness and response. “This national roadmap gives Cambodia a clear pathway to strengthening coordination,” said H.E. Kitte Sangahakbandith Kun Kim, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the National Committee for Disaster Management. “With leadership, partnership and sustained resources, we can ensure warnings become action and vulnerabilities become resilience.” Endorsed by the Prime Minister in August, the roadmap sets a clear path to strengthen resilience against climate and disaster risks. It calls for better coordination, investment in early warning systems, and a people-first approach to preparedness.“The successful implementation of the Early Warning for All roadmap, will depend on a strong, government led institutional mechanism that effectively mobilizes all relevant ministries and partners in the delivery of timely, reliable alerts to save lives and livelihoods,” said Jo Scheuer, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cambodia.With nearly 80 percent of Cambodians living in rural, climate-sensitive locations and about 65 percent relying on agriculture, timely warnings for floods, droughts and storms are critical for food security. WFP will work with the National Committee for Disaster Management to set up a multi-stakeholder coordination platform, bringing together government ministries and partners such as UNDP, FAO, IFAD, and the World Bank.Financing the RoadmapDespite a recent Green Climate Fund allocation of US $103.2 million for regional early warning system, Cambodia still faces a shortfall of US$22.7 million, approximately 41 percent of the roadmap’s estimated cost. “The real work begins now,” said Kyungnan Park, WFP Representative in Cambodia. “We need to move swiftly from roadmap to action, mobilising resources, linking early warnings to local response, and ensuring that every community is ready to act when it matters most.”Immediate priorities include finalizing operational protocols, activating coordination platforms, establishing resources allocation plans, and stepping up last‑mile communications to reach women, indigenous peoples and persons with disabilities. # # #The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media and Facebook via WFPinCambodia.

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Press Release

13 October 2025

EU CAPFISH-Capture: Post-harvest Fisheries Development Wraps up with Lasting Impact on Cambodia’s Fisheries Sector

Since its launch, the project has boosted local fishery production driven by enhanced safety, quality, and innovation, and has expanded market access. As of today, 22 enterprises are certified with the Cambodia Quality Seal (CQS), and 4 hold Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification. These gains mean quality assured, more nutritious products for consumers—and better jobs, higher incomes, and stronger competitiveness for Cambodian businesses and communities.The project has also significantly improved employment opportunities—especially for women—in the post-harvest fisheries sector. Small-scale fish processors and rural fish enterprises have gained access to better technologies, training, R&D, and market opportunities—allowing them to upscale sustainably and contribute meaningfully to the local and national economy.“The EU CAPFISH-Capture: Post-harvest Fisheries Development project has generated tangible socio-economic impact by improving food safety, expanding market access, enhancing livelihoods, and creating jobs within a more inclusive and sustainable fisheries sector. This is a showcase of UNIDO’s mandate of inclusive and sustainable industrial development,” said Mr. Dejene TEZERA, Director, Division of Agribusiness and Infrastructure Development, Directorate of SDG Innovation and Economic Transformation, UNIDO.Sustainability and inclusion have been at the central of the project’s mission. The project promoted environmentally responsible practices—such as solar drying—and encouraged fish processors to comply with safeguards. Of the 64 fish processing enterprises supported, 46 are led by women and 3 by persons with disabilities, reflecting a strong commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship and ethical labour standards across the sector.By strengthening domestic production and promoting local consumption, the project has reduced Cambodia’s reliance on imported fishery products and enhanced its competitiveness in both local and global markets. These efforts directly support national food safety and contribute to broader food security across the region.“Beyond the project metrics and milestones, most importantly, EU CAPFISH-Capture has built trust. It has fostered dialogue, cooperation, and partnership among institutions, civil society, and private sector actors. It has demonstrated that donor-funded projects can and must have local ownership and entrepreneurship to be impactful. I am convinced that the strides made will continue at the same pace during the years to come,” said H.E. Igor DRIESMANS, EU Ambassador to Cambodia.The CAPFISH-Capture: Post-harvest Fisheries Development project stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved through strategic collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. As it concludes, its legacy will continue to shape the future of Cambodia’s fisheries sector—and inspire similar progress across other industries.“The success of the EU CAPFISH-Capture project reflects how Cambodia’s fisheries sector is evolving—anchored in quality, sustainability, and inclusion. What we achieved together with our partners is not just improved products, but improved lives. As we move forward, MAFF remains committed to scaling these results nationwide, ensuring that our fishers, processors, and entrepreneurs continue to benefit from a sector that is modern, competitive, and environmentally responsible,” said H.E. DITH Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. EndFor more information, please contact:Dr. Chhoun Chamnan, Director of the Department of Fisheries Post-harvest Technologies and Quality Control (DFPTQ) of the Fisheries Administration (FiA): chhounchamnan@gmail.comMr. Samruol IM, National Communication and Visibility Expert for the CAPFISH-Capture project: S.IM@unido.org Ms. Phalkun Chan, Press and Information Officer for EU Delegation to Cambodia: phalkun.chan@eeas.europa.eu More information about the project: https://open.unido.org/projects/KH/projects/180039Project Newsletters: http://newslettercapfish-postharvest.org/achieve

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