Men Sam An, head of the Cambodian Women for Peace and Development (CWPD), expressed profound pride in the sacrifices made by women across the country, demonstrating considerable physical and mental strength to defend, restore and develop the nation. 

Sam An made the comments while presiding over a ceremony on March 6 acknowledging a revision to the composition of the association within the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation.

“Women have significantly contributed to the remarkable achievements that political parties and our government have realised over the past 44 years. We have transformed Cambodia from a country marred by war, tragedy, separation, suffering, pain and international isolation into a nation of peace, stability, safety and growth in all sectors,” she stated.

“The livelihoods of the people have consistently improved, earning recognition from the international community,” she added.

Sam An noted that the alterations to the organisation’s structure were designed to bolster and broaden solidarity, friendship and cooperation.

She said they aim to facilitate the sharing of good practices, challenges and solutions, and reinforce the commitment to achieving the Gender Mainstreaming Action Plan, promoting gender equality and aiming to further empower women.

“I am firmly hopeful that the committees within the association will dedicate their utmost effort and commitment to successfully meet the set targets and responsibilities, particularly focusing on the long-term vision for sustainable plans and development,” she added.

Social affairs minister Chea Somethy noted that the government, across seven mandates, has persistently advocated for the role and rights of women and accorded them high value. 

He stressed that the government has eradicated every perspective or attitude that discriminates against women and victims. 

Somethy said the government has encouraged women’s participation in social work to increase their presence in making political and socio-economic decisions.

“We have strived to build the capacity for gender mainstreaming across various sectors, establishing working groups specifically for this purpose. These groups are tasked with planning gender responsive activities to enable women to learn, enhance their capabilities and assume leadership roles at both technical and political levels,” he added.