Title: Women’s Rights in Cambodia

Submitted by International Network of Liberal Women (INLW)

Acknowledging the essential role of gender equality and women’s empowerment in achieving sustainable development.

Recognizing the progress made by Cambodia in improving women’s rights but noting the persistent challenges such as gender-based violence, limited access to education, and underrepresentation in leadership roles.

Concerned by ongoing reports of domestic violence, human trafficking, and discrimination against women, including individuals like Chhim Sithar, the Union Workers Leader; Seng Theary, a Cambodian American Lawyer; Prom Chantha, a Friday Women Leader; and others in both urban and rural areas. Recently, the Cambodian government arrested Long Kunthea and Phoungkoev Raksmey who are youth environmental activists of Mother Nature Cambodia.

Noting the existence of legal frameworks aimed at gender equality but emphasizing the need for more vigorous enforcement.

The following is resolved:

1. Calls upon the Cambodian government to strengthen the enforcement of laws protecting women from violence, trafficking, and exploitation.
2. Urges the government to expand access to quality education for girls and women, particularly in rural areas to promote economic empowerment.
3. Encourages the adoption of affirmative measures to increase women’s participation in politics and leadership while ensuring that judicial processes are not weaponized to intimidate women.
4. Supports civil society organizations that advocate for women’s rights and allocates resources to programs addressing gender-based violence, healthcare, and economic opportunities for women.

Requests international organizations, donors, and partners to collaborate with Cambodia by providing technical and financial support to initiatives advancing women’s rights.

Adopted this day at the LI Congress, Santiago, Chile