Labour policy, institutional reforms, skills and the expansion of social protection, particularly for informal and uncovered workers are at the heart of efforts by Cambodia and the International labour Organization (ILO) to deliver decent work in the countryover the next few years.
On 22 January 2026, the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT), together with other relevant ministries, employers' and workers' organizations and the ILO, met to endorse priorities for the 2026-2027 workplan for the implementation of the Cambodia Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) 2024-2028.
Decent Work Country Programmes are the main framework for delivering ILO's support to its member countries, setting out the priority areas for cooperation and collaboration.
Speaking at the event, Heng Sour, Minister of Labour and Vocational Training, said: "This workplan is about execution and results. Through strong tripartite cooperation, we are aligning labour reforms, skills, social protection and industrial relations to ensure decent work, inclusive growth and resilience for Cambodia's workforce."
Building on the strong results achieved under the 2024-2025 workplan, participants validated priority areas for 2026-2027. These focus on strengthening labour institutions and policies, expanding skills development and social protection, especially for informal workers, and promoting a more inclusive, resilient and formalised economy. They also aim to reinforce industrial relations, social dialogue and the protection of labour rights, including the rights of migrant workers.
Sok Lor, Vice President, Cambodian Federation of Employers and Business Associations (CAMFEBA), said: "A competitive and resilient economy requires skilled workers, productive enterprises and fair labour relations. As employers, we are committed to investing in our workforce and fostering decent working conditions, to help drive Cambodia's sustainable growth and long-term prosperity for all."
Sam Soeun, Representative of Cambodian Workers' Organizations, said: "This workplan strengthens social dialogue and protects workers, especially the most vulnerable. It ensures that economic transformation in Cambodia is fair, inclusive and leaves no worker behind."
"The DWCP is not just a cooperation framework - it is a delivery instrument," said Xiaoyan Qian, Director, ILO Country Office for Thailand, Cambodia and Lao PDR. "The workplan sharpens priorities, strengthens accountability and focuses collective action on what makes a real difference in people's lives." Top of Form
The finalised workplan will be submitted for endorsement by the Government, workers and employers' organizations in March 2026.
