Cambodia Celebrates Ranger Day to Honor Dedicated Guardians of Nature

Cambodia is set to celebrate Ranger Day on July 31, an occasion dedicated to honoring the commitment and heroism of its park rangers. The event, jointly organized by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation International (CI) Cambodia, and other conservation partners, local communities, and stakeholders, will take place at the Preah Athitea Station in the Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary in Kampong Thom Province. This observance aims to celebrate and recognize the crucial role of park rangers, who are at the forefront of protecting Cambodia's forests, wildlife, biodiversity, and natural resources. Globally, Ranger Day, observed annually on July 31, serves to commemorate and honor the sacrifices and dedication of park rangers in fulfilling their missions worldwide. In Cambodia, this day also provides an opportunity to highlight the contributions of park rangers in managing protected areas, preventing natural resource crimes, monitoring and researching biodiversity, managing forest fire risks, conducting environmental education, and collaborating with local communities. His Excellency Dr. Eang Sophalleth, Minister of Environment, stated, "Park rangers are the guardians of Cambodia's invaluable natural heritage. Every day, they fulfill their missions with great sacrifice to protect forests, wildlife, and biodiversity for the people and future generations. In the context of constantly evolving environmental issues, investing in the welfare, capacity development, and operational support of park rangers is essential for achieving Cambodia's vision of becoming a carbon-neutral country by 2050." He expressed his profound gratitude and full support for all park rangers who are diligently working on the front lines for the cause of nature conservation for the ultimate benefit of our future generations. Conservation efforts in Cambodia are being significantly prioritized, with the number of protected natural areas increasing from 23 in 1999 to 73 as of 2026, covering a total area of over 7 million hectares, equivalent to 39% of the country's landmass. These areas are vital for maintaining biodiversity, providing ecosystem services, enhancing climate change resilience, supporting community livelihoods, and fostering sustainable economic development. Promoting the welfare, safety, capacity development, and commitment of park rangers is a prerequisite for effective natural resource conservation in a world facing climate change and complex environmental challenges. The celebration of Ranger Day tomorrow will be attended by leaders from the Ministry of Environment, provincial authorities, park rangers from protected areas nationwide, representatives of conservation partner organizations, and local communities. The Ministry of Environment is implementing the "Environment Ministry Strategy 2023-2028" to strengthen the management of protected areas, enhance public participation, and improve environmental conservation awareness. Through collaboration with development partners, civil society organizations, local communities, and indigenous peoples, Cambodia continues to effectively and inclusively conserve its natural resources. Mr. Ou Sony, Country Director of Conservation International Cambodia (CI), remarked, "The success of conservation begins with the positive collective actions of people and nature. Park rangers are crucial frontline agents in conservation, working under challenging conditions to protect nature. CI is proud to collaborate with the Ministry of Environment and relevant institutions to enhance the welfare and strengthen the capacity of park rangers to perform their duties in accordance with legal principles and human rights, ensuring that Cambodia's protected areas continue to be rich in nature for future generations." As a long-standing conservation partner, CI continues to work closely with the Ministry of Environment, local communities, indigenous peoples, and all relevant partners in strengthening the management of protected areas, conserving biodiversity, building community resilience, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. Ms. Mon Phost, a female park ranger, shared her commitment to her duty in the cause of nature conservation, stating, "The job of a park ranger is not just a profession or a livelihood; it is a commitment to protecting forests, wildlife, and the future of the nation and my children. We face many challenges during patrols, but this reminds us that this profession is an honorable one." She added, "Recognition and attention to our welfare are significant motivators for us to continue our mission with pride for nature and our people."