Japan funds $1 million ILO programme to help Cambodian migrant workers reintegrate

PHNOM PENH, Feb 18, 2026 (KPT) – Japan has pledged nearly $1 million to the International Labour Organization (ILO) to support the reintegration of Cambodian migrant workers returning from Thailand, officials said Wednesday.

The two year project was launched at the Japanese embassy in Phnom Penh, in a ceremony attended by Labour Minister Heng Sour. The agreement was signed by Ambassador Ueno Atsushi and ILO country director Xiaoyan Qian.

The initiative aims to strengthen Cambodia’s response mechanisms for returnees affected by border tensions, helping them access decent work and reintegrate into the domestic economy. Three new Migrant Resource Centres will be established in Oddar Meanchey, Pursat and Preah Vihear provinces to provide job counselling, legal support and labour market information.

The programme will also expand job matching services through employer consultations and job fairs, while offering short term vocational training, recognition of prior learning and entrepreneurship development.

Japanese officials said the support reflects Tokyo’s commitment to human security and regional stability. The ILO added that linking skills recognition, employment services and social protection would help returnees rebuild stable livelihoods at home.