Cambodia strengthens cooperation with global unions to advance workers’ rights

GENEVA, June 9, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has pledged closer cooperation with international labor unions to reinforce social dialogue and workers’ rights, with Labour Minister Heng Sour stressing the country’s commitment to freedom of association and constructive industrial relations at the 114th International Labour Conference.

In bilateral talks with Atle Hoie, General Secretary of IndustriALL Global Union, Sour pointed to Cambodia’s tripartite mechanisms – including the Labour Advisory Committee and National Minimum Wage Council – as platforms for dialogue among government, employers and workers. He said the growth of registered unions reflected progress in collective bargaining and the government’s determination to improve working conditions.

IndustriALL welcomed Cambodia’s efforts, reaffirming support for initiatives to strengthen labor standards in the garment, footwear and travel goods sectors. Discussions also touched on responsible business conduct and supply chain due diligence under international frameworks such as the ILO Tripartite Declaration and UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

In a separate meeting with Shoya Yoshida, General Secretary of ITUC‑Asia Pacific, Sour reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to promoting freedom of association through the Decent Work Country Programme 2024–2028. He proposed closer cooperation on union capacity building and training leaders on international labor standards.

Yoshida praised Cambodia’s openness, saying stronger union participation in tripartite mechanisms would enhance workers’ welfare and national development. Both sides agreed transparent and inclusive dialogue was essential to advancing rights, promoting industrial harmony and sustaining economic growth.