Training aimed at strengthening Cambodia's capacity to carry out evidence-based policymaking for skills development, employment and active labour market policies has been launched by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT).
The four-day course, held in Siem Reap from 30 March to 2 April 2026, brings together 40 policymakers and social partners to develop practical skills for shaping policies that create decent jobs and promote social justice in Cambodia.
The opening ceremony was presided over by His Excellency Lim Suy Hong, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training. "This training is of great importance for leaders and technical officials, as well as representatives from relevant institutions, workers' and employers' organizations, to enhance their understanding of key ILO principles, social dialogue, and the process of developing evidence-based policies".
Cambodia has made significant gains in labour market reforms but continues to face significant challenges including relatively low levels of skills in the labour force and high levels of informality. Further, Cambodia's graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2029 will require the development of a more globally competitive workforce.
"Despite Cambodia's significant progress in labour policies, policymakers in Cambodia are facing complex challenges, from employment generation and labour market transitions to informality, skills development and social protection. This makes it more important than ever that policy decisions are grounded in reliable data, sound analysis, and a clear understanding of labour market realities," said Mary Kent, Skills and Employability Specialist, ILO Cambodia.
The training is targeted at officials from several ministries, representatives of trade unions and employers' organizations. Over the course of four days, participants will learn how to formulate strong policy questions; search for and critically assess evidence, including labour market statistics; synthesize and communicate findings effectively; and draft policy briefs.
"This course is about turning evidence into action. By the end of the training, participants will not only understand the principles of evidence-based policymaking but will also apply them by drafting policy briefs on decent work issues relevant to Cambodia," said Naren Prasad, Head of Education and Training at the ILO Research Department.
