GCAP Cambodia hosts National Dialogue to improve social protections in agro-industry

The Cooperation Committee of Cambodia (CCC) (GCAP Cambodia) hosted the Cambodia National People Assembly on 30-31 October 2024. With a focus on advancing social protection for workers in key agricultural sectors, around 150 participants including representatives from Cambodia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, the National Social Protection Council (NSPC) and other government bodies attended the event. Representatives from companies, civil society organizations, and worker groups also engaged in discussions at the assembly, themed “National Dialogue on Social Protection.”

The event highlighted accomplishments and best practices for protecting workers and farmers in the rubber and banana industries. It provided a platform for stakeholders from government and private sectors to discuss challenges and identify solutions to enhance protections.

Oxfam Cambodia’s National Director, Phean Sophorn said that social protection programmes like the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) offers health benefits and other facilities. However, the reach and quality of these services need improvement. He highlighted that workers in these sectors often operate in remote regions with limited telecommunication access and may face health risks due to inadequate protection from pesticide exposure.

CCC’s Executive Director Sin Putheary emphasized the role of civil society and multi-stakeholder collaboration. “With 186 domestic and international NGO members, CCC actively collaborates on policy development with the government to support social protections and decent working conditions,” she said.

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