Country Programme Cambodia

In Cambodia, the impacts of climate change and disasters are further eroding livelihoods and exacerbating migration. The future of the country depends on decreasing its vulnerability to climate change and on creating sustainable livelihoods for the poor. Caritas Switzerland in Cambodia is dedicated to address the underlying drivers of poverty. Our core themes are increasing the income of vulnerable people, building the resilience of communities and their adaptation to climate variability and change, and safe migration. Caritas Switzerland’s country programme targets communities most affected by disaster, poverty, and migration in north-western provinces bordering Thailand. Caritas Switzerland works towards a Cambodia in which human development is for everyone.

Climate-smart livelihoods: The programme builds the capacity of rural communities that face water-related extremes and climatic stress. Adapted rice-varieties and diversification of livelihoods enhance productivity and income of smallholder farmers. Improved water infrastructure (canals, ponds) and the application 'Integrity Management Toolbox for Irrigation Systems' empowers the water user groups to develop and sustain a reliable and equitable water systems that ensures access to water for irrigation and household purposes. Blue Schools combine Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in an innovative manner.

Safe Migration: Cambodia is one of the most important sending countries in South East Asia. Particularly in the border region with Thailand, Caritas’ main area of operation, legal and illegal migration shapes the daily lives of families. Caritas works to raise awareness on the possibilities of legal and well-planned migration. The approach combines prevention, protection and reintegration.

Income: Poverty reduction and the promotion of prosperity are the overall objectives of all activities. Caritas helps disadvantaged children and young people through a high-quality basic education and vocational training. The measures are the key to overcoming poverty as they eventually increase employability and prospects of the beneficiaries.

Working through local structures: Through working with local partners, Caritas Switzerland aims to build ownership to ensure the sustainability of the projects. A key component in this is supporting civil society actors to link with local government, and to engage in advocacy aimed at creating long-lasting changes in governance.