Cambodia sets up centers for citizens repatriated from US

By: Minea Son/Hun Sirivadh

PHNOM PENH, March 27, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has established reception centers to assist citizens being repatriated from the United States, offering legal support, skills training and job placement before reintegration into their communities.

The Ministry of Social Affairs said on March 26 that facilities in Phnom Penh and several provinces are using existing elderly care and rehabilitation centers to accommodate returnees.

“If they have skills, we will find jobs for them. For those without skills, we provide voluntary training,” ministry official Touch Channy said.

The initiative is coordinated with the Ministry of Labor to align placements with the local job market.

Social Affairs Minister Chea Somethy inspected one of the centers in Phnom Penh, noting it would provide care and services before families are reunited.

Pa Chanroeun of the Cambodian Democracy Institute welcomed the preparations as “essential,” but urged additional psychological support, documentation assistance and private sector engagement to ease reintegration.

US immigration data showed 1,747 Cambodian citizens scheduled for repatriation in 2025, with figures for 2026 yet to be confirmed.