UN's Remarks at Pride Fest Cambodia 2026

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Chum Reap Suor.

To everyone gathered here today, warm greetings from the United Nations in Cambodia.

It is a pleasure to join you at Pride Fest Cambodia 2026 and to celebrate the diversity, courage, resilience, and contributions of the LGBTIQ+ community. 

Today is not only a celebration. It is also a reminder of a fundamental principle that lies at the heart of the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: every person is born free and equal in dignity and rights.

Every person should be able to live with dignity, to be respected, to belong at home, in school, at work, and in their communities, regardless of who they are or whom they love.

While many LGBTIQ+ people around the world continue to face discrimination and barriers, we are also witnessing encouraging progress. Across Cambodia, we see growing dialogue, stronger community leadership, and increasing recognition that diversity makes societies stronger.

The United Nations is proud to stand alongside the LGBTIQ+ community in Cambodia. Together with civil society organizations, community groups, government partners, and development partners, the UN Country Team supports efforts to advance equality, inclusion, health, protection, and human rights for all.

We are also proud to support Pride Fest as an important platform that brings people together, raises awareness, promotes understanding, and creates space for meaningful conversations about equality and inclusion.

Pride matters because inclusion and safe spaces matter.

Today's conversations remind us that inclusion is not only about rights—it is also about recognizing the valuable contributions that LGBTIQ+ people make every day to their communities and to society as a whole. Whether in times of crisis or in everyday life, diverse voices, experiences, and leadership make communities stronger and more resilient.

Inclusion strengthens families, communities, institutions, and ultimately the development of a more equitable, just and prosperous Cambodia. 

Today, let us celebrate not only diversity, but also solidarity. Let us continue building a Cambodia where everyone is respected, valued, and empowered to contribute to the country's future.

To the LGBTIQ+ community in Cambodia: you are seen, you are valued, and you belong.

Happy Pride Fest 2026.

Thank you.