PHNOM PENH, March 7 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said peace and security remain essential foundations for advancing women’s rights and strengthening families, in a message marking the 115th International Women’s Day on March 8.
Speaking under the theme “Peace and Security for Women and Families,” Hun Manet said stability is not only a national objective but a condition that begins within families and communities, shaping the daily lives of women and households.
The prime minister expressed respect and gratitude to King Norodom Sihamoni and Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk for their continued attention to the welfare of the Cambodian people, particularly their support for promoting the status and rights of women and girls.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, the Cambodian National Council for Women, government institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations and development partners in advancing gender equality in Cambodia.
Hun Manet said the Royal Government continues to prioritise women’s empowerment across economic, educational, health and leadership sectors through policies under the Pentagonal Strategy – Phase I.
The prime minister highlighted Cambodia’s participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions as an example of the country’s contribution to international peace and security. According to government figures, Cambodia has deployed 10,447 peacekeepers since 2006, including 990 women, to UN missions in 10 countries.
Recent UN peacekeeping data indicate that women make up more than 20% of Cambodia’s active peacekeeping personnel, reflecting efforts to increase female participation in line with international gender parity initiatives within UN operations.
Officials often describe the programme as part of Cambodia’s transformation from a country that once hosted a large UN peacekeeping mission during the UNTAC operation in the early 1990s to a contributor to global peacekeeping efforts.
Hun Manet said women are not only beneficiaries of peace but also play a critical role in maintaining stability within families, communities and wider society.
He called on ministries, institutions and development partners to strengthen investment in women and girls, expand social protection systems, prevent gender-based violence and support women entrepreneurs.
The prime minister also urged continued cooperation between the government and broader society to create favourable conditions for women and girls to fully participate in Cambodia’s political, economic and social life.
He concluded by calling on all citizens to work together with the Royal Government to ensure greater opportunities for women and girls while contributing to peace and sustainable socio-economic development.
