Cambodia Urges Continued Partnership with Civil Society for National Development

His Excellency, Dr. Sar Sokha, Deputy Prime Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, urged all organizations, associations, and development partners to continue cooperating with the government to promote sustainable national development. He emphasized the significant role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in contributing to the nation's restoration and development, particularly in the context of the digital era. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 7th Government-Civil Society Partnership Forum, held on July 28, 2026, at the Ministry of Interior, H.E. Dr. Sar Sokha highlighted the forum's importance in strengthening the systematic dialogue mechanism between state institutions and CSOs. He reiterated the government's commitment to addressing challenges and finding common solutions in a spirit of true partnership. As of June 2026, Cambodia has registered a total of 6,597 CSOs, comprising 3,001 associations and 3,596 non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged the evolving landscape brought about by digital technology, which impacts how work is done, communication occurs, services are accessed, and citizens engage in social affairs. He noted that the digital context presents new opportunities for CSOs to disseminate information, mobilize resources, coordinate activities, provide services to communities, and enhance citizen participation. H.E. Dr. Sar Sokha expressed gratitude to the government working groups for facilitating CSO requests and proposals, as well as to the General Department of Administration of the Ministry of Interior, relevant ministries and institutions, provincial administrations, embassies, development partners, national and international CSOs, media, and all stakeholders for their participation. Regarding the challenges raised during the forum, the Minister of Interior considered them valuable inputs for finding solutions and simplifying administrative procedures. He specifically mentioned the push for digital mechanisms to reduce complexity and respond effectively to CSO demands in a timely manner. He also provided recommendations for all associations and NGOs to operate in compliance with existing laws, maintain financial transparency, and use digital systems responsibly. Furthermore, sub-national administrations were instructed to facilitate cooperation, organize regular consultation forums, and take measures to prevent fraud at the local level. The 7th forum aimed to review work progress since the previous one, share best practices, enhance understanding of laws and regulations, and collect necessary requests from CSOs and local authorities for government review and resolution. This initiative seeks to promote the exercise of rights and freedoms by associations and NGOs within Cambodia's rule of law framework. The forum was attended by approximately 708 participants, including representatives from relevant ministries, sub-national administrations, local administrative councils, embassies, development partners, media, and CSO representatives. Of these, 500 attended in person, and 208 participated online.