The “Advancing Social Protection” project, implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF in partnership with the National Social Protection Fund (NSPF), concluded with a closing event in Phnom Penh on December 19.

Over one million additional Cambodian workers have gained access to social protection under the four-year initiative led by the UN and supported by the EU.

The initiative significantly increased the number of workers enrolled in social protection schemes, including those from informal sectors and vulnerable groups. Coverage expanded from 1.5 million workers in 2021 to 2.5 million in 2024. Additionally, more than 700,000 families – encompassing approximately three million individuals – now benefit from the national social assistance family package, an integrated cash transfer programme, according to a joint press statement released the same day. 

The release noted that the project played a critical role during the Covid-19 pandemic, delivering emergency cash transfers to over two million families. The emergency measure has since evolved into a long-term social assistance scheme under the family package.

“This initiative offered hope for families across the country grappling with the devastating impacts of Covid-19,” said UNICEF country representative Will Parks. “We came together to strengthen Cambodia’s social protection system, ensuring the poorest and most vulnerable households were not left behind.”

According to the release, two landmark policies were introduced with the project’s support. The Sub-Decree on the Voluntary Healthcare Scheme for Self-Employed Workers and Dependents, launched in August 2023, provided access to healthcare for self-employed workers for the first time.

The adoption of the National Strategy for the Development of the Informal Economy 2023-2028 in October 2023 aimed to extend social protection to informal economy workers, ensuring they could better manage risks throughout their lives.

“By extending coverage to an additional one million workers, we are not only improving livelihoods but also strengthening the resilience of communities,” said ILO country director Xiaoyan Qian. “These achievements demonstrate the power of social dialogue and sustainable policies in building a fairer and more inclusive future for all Cambodians.”

The initiative also made strides in disability inclusion, supporting the development of the digital Disability Identification System (DMIS). The initiative links individuals with disabilities to the family package and other public social assistance programmes, ensuring that their needs are addressed effectively.

While celebrating the achievements, participants at the event acknowledged that nine million Cambodians still lack access to social protection. Discussions highlighted the need for further legislative reforms, improved transparency and enhanced system effectiveness through digital transformation. Outreach campaigns and strengthened institutional capacity were also identified as priorities.

“The EU is proud to have supported the government’s efforts to expand social protection coverage,” said EU ambassador to Cambodia Igor Driesmans. “We remain committed to working with all actors to promote an integrated approach to improving decent work and resilience in Cambodia.”

The event also marked the launch of the Cambodian Roadmap to Implement the Global Accelerator for Jobs and Social Protection, a collaborative effort by the ILO, UNICEF and other partners to build on the project’s success.

“These achievements demonstrate the results of close collaboration among many actors,” said Yok Samedy, deputy secretary-general of the National Social Protection Council. “I strongly hope that relevant ministries, agencies and development partners continue to implement measures to strengthen the social protection system in Cambodia.”

The initiative reflects a shared commitment to fostering a more resilient and inclusive society, ensuring social protection for all Cambodians, according to the press release.