OXFAM Cambodia country director Phean Sophoan (right) and Heng Sophannarith, deputy director-general of the NSSF, during the December 18 workshop. OXFAM
OXFAM in Cambodia country director Phean Sophoan said inclusive, gender-responsive and universal social protection systems are crucial in Cambodia. While the international organisation has initiated these systems, Sophoan emphasised the need for further discussions to ensure their effective outreach to vulnerable groups.
Speaking at the annual forum “Towards Inclusive, Gender-Responsive, and Universal Social Security in Cambodia” on December 18 in Phnom Penh, she said that climate change, natural disasters, conflicts and wars pose threats to the livelihoods of vulnerable farmers and workers.
She noted the importance of implementing policies to provide effective protection for these groups.
“Ensuring workers and their families have access to social protection is crucial for their well-being. It reduces vulnerability to global disasters or epidemics and helps lift them from poverty,” she said.
She said the first national forum responded to requests from local leaders and workers’ representatives, following three forums held in Cambodia’s regional economic hubs – Siem Reap, Preah Sihanouk and Svay Rieng – from July to November 2023. These regional forums, attended by 800 local leaders and workers’ representatives, covered farmers, workers in the apparel industry, youth and communities from various provinces.
During these forums, concerns and requests were raised and documented, predominantly focusing on improving the registration and payment of contributory fees for workers, maternity and pregnancy protection for workers and the need for enhancements in the health system and quality healthcare services for National Social Security Fund (NSSF) cardholders.
Local leaders and workers’ representatives engaged in discussions, addressing concerns and presenting requests to specialists, representatives of the NSSF, National Social Protection Council (NSPC), Ministry of Women’s Affairs and subnational departments seeking policy interventions and solutions.
Heng Sophannarith, deputy director-general of the NSSF, noted that the fund has been actively addressing these issues and requests, successfully resolving various concerns.
He assured that if any concerns or requests remain unaddressed after the forum, he would convey them and propose discussions with the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, collaborating with the NSPC to find equitable solutions.
“We’ll arrange a forum with NSPC and Ministry of Health representatives, along with those from the fund. I trust NSSF representatives can address these questions and requests,” he said.
