Cambodia Red Cross Promotes IHL and Climate Action at Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting

The Cambodian Red Cross, under the directive of its President Samdech Kittipote Bun Rany Hun Sen, dispatched a delegation of four representatives to the 23rd Asia-Pacific Regional Conference of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the 5th Youth Forum, held in Yangon, Myanmar, from September 7-9, 2026. The delegation was led by H.E. Yu Lana, Deputy Secretary General Assistant II of the Cambodian Red Cross. The conference saw the participation of leaders, officials, and youth from the 11 National Societies in the Asia-Pacific region, along with representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Key outcomes of the meeting included 16 discussions, during which the Cambodian Red Cross co-led a session on the steps to be taken to enhance understanding of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). This presentation garnered significant attention from the participants, with requests for the 11 National Societies to establish IHL working groups, develop standardized training materials, and promote IHL awareness. Discussions also covered the outcomes of the Youth Forum, with participation from leaders of the 11 National Societies. Following the presentation of the 5th Youth Forum's results, youth representatives presented on five themes. Notably, a Cambodian youth representative led discussions on climate change. The two-day conference culminated in the adoption of the 'Yangon Statement 2026,' which outlines five key points: 1. Cooperation between IFRC and ASEAN: Extend the duration of the MoU beyond 2027 to develop an action plan aligned with the 'One ASEAN, One Response' vision, and organize regional joint disaster response drills. 2. Disaster Preparedness and Protection: Establish a regional commitment tracking system and a disaster management network. 3. Climate Action and Health Activities: Create a regional forum to exchange strategies for climate resilience and integrate health programs. 4. Accountability and Financial Sustainability: Demonstrate transparent operations, digital cash assistance, regional resource mobilization partnerships, and the implementation of the Federation's resource mobilization strategy. 5. International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Youth Empowerment: Transition IHL activities from ad-hoc measures to systematic national-level commitments. Support the outcomes of the 5th Youth Forum by allocating funds for youth-led projects on climate change and peacebuilding, and facilitate intergenerational dialogue. Source: AKP Khmer