Cambodia Accelerates Formalization of Informal Workers with UN-Backed Social Protection Roadmap

PHNOM PENH, July 22, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia is intensifying efforts to bring millions of informal workers into the formal economy under a United Nations‑backed roadmap aimed at expanding social protection, strengthening labor rights and supporting inclusive growth, officials said Thursday. The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, together with the International Labour Organization and Oxfam, convened a national workshop on July 22 to review progress in implementing Cambodia’s Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions Roadmap. The focus was on extending social security coverage and accelerating the formalization of informal employment. About 250 participants from government agencies, UN organizations, civil society and worker groups joined discussions on practical measures to strengthen social protection and improve labor market inclusion. Cambodia continues to grapple with a labor market where roughly 88 percent of workers remain in informal employment, often without access to legal protections or social security. While social health protection now covers around seven million people, extending benefits to informal workers remains a national priority. Under the government’s 2023–2028 National Strategy for Informal Economic Development, participants explored ways to boost registration with the National Social Security Fund, particularly for MSMEs, self‑employed workers and those in emerging sectors such as digital platforms and gig work. Labour Minister Sour Heng said Cambodia has made significant progress but stressed that “no worker should be left behind.” He said the roadmap reinforces the government’s commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient labor market. Oxfam Cambodia National Director Sophoan Phean said informal and self‑employed workers remain central to the economy but face barriers to recognition and protection. Recommendations included strengthening legal pathways for platform workers, expanding digital registration systems and increasing outreach to improve enrollment.