Cambodia Focuses on Women's Skills and Workplace Safety to Enhance Competitiveness

Cambodia is placing a strong emphasis on enhancing women's skills and ensuring workplace safety as it gears up for its graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by the end of 2029, aiming to bolster its international competitiveness. During the 5th Gender Equality Forum held on September 22, 2026, in Phnom Penh, H.E. Sovann Vannarath, Acting Minister of Labour and Vocational Training, highlighted the importance of women's empowerment, fostering safe and inclusive work environments, and adapting to changing international trade conditions post-LDC graduation. The Minister underscored the significant contribution of women in the Garment, Footwear, and Travel Goods (GFT) sector, a vital part of Cambodia's economy. To navigate technological advancements and evolving market demands, investments in reskilling, upskilling, and digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), were identified as crucial for strengthening the capabilities of female workers and enabling them to benefit more from the changing world of work. The development of women's leadership and the adoption of digital technologies were also cited as key components in supporting female workers in the GFT sector. Furthermore, it was emphasized that ensuring Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) in the workplace, protecting human rights, and preventing Gender-Based Violence and Harassment (GBVH) are fundamental to creating safe, equitable, and productive work environments. The promotion of workers' rights was deemed essential for building a resilient and sustainable economy and for fostering confidence among international investors and buyers. The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training reaffirmed its commitment to "transforming dialogue into concrete action," in line with government policies and the 2024-2028 Strategic Plan for the Development of the Labour Sector, Social Protection, and Vocational Training. This includes efforts to improve working conditions, occupational safety and health, institutional modernization, international cooperation, and gender equality. Cambodia is committed to advancing workers' rights, social protection, skills development, and responsible business practices to continue on its path towards inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local