Cambodia Expands Social Protection System, Boosts Cooperation with Australia to Aid Vulnerable Populations

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Hun Manet, the Royal Government of Cambodia is actively advancing and strengthening its social protection system to provide more comprehensive and resilient coverage for the needs of the poor and vulnerable populations nationwide. Speaking at the official announcement ceremony for additional financing for the "Investment Project for Social Protection and Health (ISPH2)," Madam Peng Sophea, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Economy and Finance and representative of H.E. Aun Pornmoniroth, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, and Chairman of the National Social Protection Council, highlighted Cambodia's firm commitment to implementing the first phase of the Pentagonal Strategy and the National Social Protection Policy Framework. During the event, Madam Peng Sophea presented the key achievements of Cambodia's social protection system, noting the significant national budget allocation. Two major social protection programs have been supported: the National Social Assistance Program, which as of June 2024, has extended coverage to approximately 4.86 million target beneficiaries with a national budget of around 1,131 billion Cambodian Riel (equivalent to $282 million USD) for seven major assistance programs. The Social Security Fund (SSF) covers approximately 3.7 million citizens for pensions, healthcare, and work-related risks, with the government allocating around 1,900 billion Cambodian Riel (equivalent to $475 million USD) for 2024, in addition to contributions collected from members. Madam Peng Sophea further stated that in terms of work direction and welcoming cooperation to respond to climate change and various crises, Cambodia warmly welcomes the additional cooperation and financing of AUD 3 million from the Government of Australia (through GIZ Cambodia). The Cambodian side will utilize these funds to achieve key priority objectives, including providing specific support to persons with disabilities and preparing for energy transition. This includes modernizing the digital social protection system, improving identification and establishing a more efficient data-sharing system, assisting informal economy workers in joining the social protection system, strengthening the capacity of local implementation officials, and enhancing responsiveness to major emergencies or crises. The Cambodian side expressed high appreciation for the joint efforts between national ministries and institutions (such as the Ministry of Planning, Ministry of Social Affairs, and Ministry of Health) and development partners. Madam Peng Sophea affirmed that this cooperation will serve as a strong foundation for building an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable social protection system for the well-being of all Cambodian citizens. By: Ya Chanthakhanthy © All rights reserved by Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP) 2018