Oxfam and Partners Convene the National Forum on Social Protection for a Just Transition and Climate Action
A youth group from Siem Reap province performs to highlight the struggles faced by women workers amid climate change and their limited access to social protection. Photo: Oxfam
Oxfam, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training and our partners convene the national forum on “Social Protection for A Just Transition and Climate Action” in Phnom Penh on November 28, 2025. The event followed three regional forums held in Kampong Speu, Ratanakiri and Siem Reap province, and brought together approximately 250 stakeholders including community leaders, policy makers, worker’s representatives and experts.
The forum highlights the urgent need to strengthen Cambodia’s social protection systems to ensure transparency, gender inclusivity, and climate resilience. Thes are key pillars for sustainable and equitable national development.
H.E. Dr. HENG Sophannarith, Deputy Director General of the National Social Security Fund, Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training. Photo: Oxfam
“The resilience and leadership of people across Cambodia must be central to our response to just transition and climate challenge. The National Social Security Fund of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training is committed to equity, dignity, and protection for all, especially those most vulnerable to environmental and economic change.”
Mr. Pitour Sok, Oxfam Program Manager. Photo: Oxfam
“A just transition must ensure that women workers in different sectors are not left behind. As societies shift to green jobs, clean energy and stronger green economies, Cambodia must build systems that are accountable and environmentally friendly through dialogue among social security providers, local leaders and workers.”
Cambodia, like many Southeast Asian nations, faces severe climate impacts that threaten economic sustainability, particularly in the agri-food sector. Vulnerable groups including women, the elderly, people with disabilities, and indigenous communities often lack adequate protection mechanisms.
As Cambodia strives for high-middle-income status by 2030 and high-income status by 2050, advancing a green economy alongside sustainable agriculture and industry is essential. Robust social protection policies, stronger labor standards, and targeted skills development will be critical to creating inclusive employment opportunities and safeguarding workers’ rights.
Oxfam and partners continue to implement programs that strengthen labor rights and social protection, improve working conditions for women workers, integrate social protection with public financial systems, and address the needs of garment workers. These efforts aim to reduce poverty and promote sustainable, fair development.
