For nearly 20 years, Sorn Yeab has worked as a factory worker, spending the last eight as a union leader. At 32, she serves as secretary of the Coalition of Cambodia Apparel Workers Democratic Union (C.CAWDU) at NEWSIGHT Garment Co., Ltd. where she has dedicated herself to advocating for her colleagues, particularly in accessing National Social Security Fund (NSSF) benefits.

Living in Steung Meanchey, south-west of Phnom Penh, Yeab understands firsthand the challenges workers face, including labor exploitation and limited social support. In 2019, she joined an Oxfam initiative, and later the FIRST project, which deepened her knowledge about the NSSF. The project implemented by C.CAWDU and Oxfam with financial support by the European Union, helped Yeab understand the wide-ranging benefits of the NSSF scheme, which include free healthcare, pensions, workplace injury support, and labor protections.

“We’ve gained valuable knowledge that we wouldn’t have otherwise received. As factory workers, we never expected to learn about the NSSF in such depth. This knowledge has been incredibly helpful for our workers, as it allows them to reduce the frequency of health checks required in our industry,” she shared.  

Thanks to her efforts, over 700 workers at her factory now have NSSF cards. However, many still struggle to use them effectively. She remains committed to helping her fellow workers navigate these challenges. “Before joining the FIRST project, I, like many others, wasn’t very familiar with the NSSF card. I had no idea who to contact or how to address any problems that might arise with it,” she shares. Through trainings, she learned how to address issues with NSSF and how to connect workers with the appropriate contacts, empowering her to assist her peers more effectively.

Beyond acquiring valuable knowledge, Yeab has become a key resource for her fellow workers. She shares information about the advantages of having NSSF and supports them in obtaining their cards, while also encouraging her employer to register employees with the program.

““As factory workers we earn little, making it barely possible to afford healthcare or surgery, which is very expensive. However, since learning about the NSSF benefits, the cost of treatment is no longer a concern” ”

Yeab

This knowledge enhances Yeab’s ability to advocate for workers’ rights, enabling her to identify and address violations of labor laws. Her advocacy has been particularly impactful for pregnant workers, as she highlights the NSSF’s coverage of checkups, maternity allowances, and improved medical services. “Pregnant women can receive checkups and an allowance, starting from the first week of pregnancy until maternity day. General patients can also access free examinations, and the quality of service has improved,” she said.

While service delays persist at some hospitals, Yeab has seen progress crediting union leaders for raising concerns with local authorities. Her efforts have ensured workers can access services at both government and private facilities.

Recognizing the transformative impact of capacity strengthening initiatives, Yeab encourages organizations to continue raise awareness on social protection programs. Her advocacy not only improve healthcare access for her peers, but also empower them to stand up for their rights.