In Cambodia, we have worked with 54 local partners and reached approximately 68,968 individuals from marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, LGBTQI individuals, youth & elderly people, indigenous communities, and women facing exploitation, violence or abuse.

Voice Cambodia has empowered five rightsholder groups in Cambodia by promoting inclusive access to resources, services, and political participation. This has led to increased capacity, confidence, and a stronger foundation for these groups. They are encouraged to speak up, advocate their rights, and participate in decision-making processes. Peer-to-peer support and solidarity have grown within communities, amplifying voices and creating a bigger impact when individuals unite. The project has also increased visibility, recognition, and acceptance for marginalized groups. Influencing efforts, such as engaging with leaders and using media, have driven positive change, as seen in the appointment of representatives from the Cambodian Aging Network (CAN) to develop the National Aging Policy Action Plan. These results align with the principles of inclusivity and leaving no one behind.

Oxfam and our partner Live & Learn Cambodia organized “The Power of Inclusion” festival on April 5, 2024, in Phnom Penh to celebrate eight years of impactful collaboration with grantee partners. The event showcased projects from 26 Voice grantee partners, highlighting the journey towards inclusion for marginalized communities. 

Ms. Sophoan Phean, Oxfam National Director, expressed Oxfam’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity. “We empower the community we work with to fully participate in different levels and platforms starting from community development up to policy dialogue and discussion, in line with the principle of “Leave no one behind and Inclusiveness,” said Sophoan.

Ms. Sophoan Phean, Oxfam National Director delivered her speech during the “Power of Inclusion” festival.

Ms. Sophoan Phean, Oxfam National Director, expressed Oxfam’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity. “We empower the community we work with to fully participate in different levels and platforms starting from community development up to policy dialogue and discussion, in line with the principle of “Leave no one behind and Inclusiveness.”

A fashion show highlighting key messages of a rightsholder group.

A fashion show highlighting key messages of a rightsholder group. Photo: Kimheang Tuon/Oxfam

The program is an initiative of and financed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands. It is executed by a consortium between Oxfam and Hivos across 10 countries in Southeast Asia, East and West Africa.

Ms. That Nika, Founder of Nika Massage

"I am the first female blind massage therapist in Cambodia. I experienced many barriers growing up as a blind girl, and I continued to face obstacles as a blind woman. My dream is for all of us to have opportunity for employment, social engagement, and communication. I want everyone to value and recognize our abilities more than our disabilities," said Ms. That Nika, Founder of Nika Massage.

 

Mr. Thida Kuy, Co-Founder of LoveIsDiversity, LGBTQI Community

"Before and after coming out, I observe almost a 100% difference in my life. Living as who I am gives me peace and hope," said Mr. Thida Kuy, Co-Founder of LoveIsDiversity, LGBTQI Community.
 

Member of People Living with HIV in Ratanakiri Province

"During the public dialogue forum, I was introduced to and guided on how to apply for ID-poor card, and the local authority helped me obtain it. With the ID-poor card, I received a monthly allowance and have access to free health care when I am sick. My children can attend supplementary education for free. I request that the local authority continue issuing this ID-poor cards to people who are HIV positive like me," said Ms. Chanthan Em, Member of People Living with HIV in Ratanakiri Province.
 

Ms. Lao Sru, Member of the Older People Association (OPA)

"It would have been difficult for me and my children to earn a living during this Covid pandemic if we hadn’t received cash transfer support. I am incredibly grateful to OPA and the organization that has supported me so far. I am so happy to be a member of OPA," Ms. Lao Sru, Member of the Older People Association (OPA).
 

Ms. Sophoan Phean, Oxfam National Director delivered her speech during the “Power of Inclusion” festival.
Ms. Thip Yav, Indigenous Representative of “Our Turn” Project, Women Peace Maker

"Thankfully for not discriminating against indigenous people, please end any form of violence against indigenous women and girls, said Ms. Thip Yav, Indigenous Representative of “Our Turn” Project, Women Peace Maker.