Phnom Penh: To mark the 140th anniversary of International Labour Day on May 1st, a public forum for social dialogue was held at the Koh Pich Convention Center under the theme “Social Protection Response Policies, Labor Rights, and the Global Crisis.”
The forum was jointly organized by the Cambodian Confederation of Workers’ Movements (CCW), the Cambodian Confederation of Labor (CLC), and the Cambodian Farmers’ Association. It brought together representatives from the Royal Government, civil society organizations, unions, and development partners to discuss and develop joint solutions aimed at improving the lives and dignity of workers in this era of rapid change.
Distinguished speakers at the forum emphasized the importance of social protection systems as a strong shield for workers facing various risks. They highlighted the expansion of the National Social Security System (NSS) and the introduction of a voluntary health care social security scheme as effective mechanisms to reduce burdens and strengthen the resilience of working families amid the global economic crisis.
Alongside well-being, respect for labor rights remained a central focus. Participants engaged in lively discussions on the implementation of labor laws, strengthening the freedom of professional organizations, and the peaceful resolution of labor disputes.
Ensuring good working conditions, safety, and hygiene in factories and enterprises is not only a humanitarian value but also a key driver for boosting labor productivity and attracting foreign investment to Cambodia.
The forum also examined the impacts of global crises—such as climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and inflation—that threaten job stability. In response, policies focused on reskilling and upskilling were discussed to help the Cambodian workforce adapt to the demands of the digital labor market. Comprehensive strategic planning and advance preparation were identified as essential to transforming these challenges into opportunities for sustainable economic development.
The spirit of International Workers’ Day on May 1, 2026, has emerged as a powerful new force encouraging closer cooperation among the state, workers, and employers. Their shared goal is to build a society grounded in equity and sustainable development—one in which “no one is left behind.”
