A new program aims to encourage women to become more actively involved in politics to increase the number of female representatives in future elections.

The program, dubbed “Women into Politics!”, aims to educate potential female candidates for office in communication, use of the media and women’s political issues, and is scheduled to run for three years.

Minister of Women’s Affairs Oeung Kantha Phary said she supported the project, which she said was consistent with the government’s policy of urging women to enter politics, especially with commune and national elections fast approaching.

Chea Sundaneth, executive director of the Women’s Media Centre of Cambodia, said the project will be a challenge, especially for younger women.

However, George Edgar, ambassador to Cambodia for the EU, which is funding the program, said female participation remained low simply because they are given fewer opportunities than men.