Cambodia and ILO Deepen Partnership on Decent Work, Skills Development, and Future Workforce Challenges

GENEVA, June 10, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on decent work, skills development, social protection and workforce readiness to address emerging challenges in the rapidly evolving world of work, officials said Tuesday.

The pledge was made during a bilateral meeting between Cambodian Labour Minister Heng Sour and ILO Director‑General Gilbert F. Houngbo on the sidelines of the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva.

Sour praised the long‑standing partnership, citing initiatives such as the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) 2024–2028, Better Factories Cambodia (BFC), the Decent Employment for Youth Phase III (DEY III), and the Global Accelerator on jobs and social protection.

He reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to implementing the DWCP as a key policy framework for inclusive and sustainable development, noting that BFC remains a strong example of adherence to international labour standards.

Both sides also discussed modernizing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), worker protection, and equipping Cambodian workers with skills for future labour market demands.

Sour highlighted Cambodia’s role as a Pathfinder Country under the Global Accelerator, supporting efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 8 on decent work and economic growth.

Houngbo commended Cambodia’s active engagement, acknowledging progress in promoting decent work, strengthening social protection, advancing skills development and fostering social dialogue.

The two sides agreed to deepen strategic cooperation to help Cambodia navigate workforce challenges while ensuring economic transformation creates quality jobs and opportunities for all citizens.