The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung in Cambodia

Since the first parliamentary elections in 1993, Cambodia has been transformed from a socialist system into a liberal one with democratic institutions and an open market economy. People are increasingly aware of their political rights and a growing number of women are taking political office. However, the process is by no means complete: powerful clientelist structures remain, corruption is endemic and the gap between rich and poor is growing wider. Cambodia also faces many economic challenges. The economy is not very diversified and extremely dependent on the textile industry, while the private sector has been hampered by unclear land and property rights and a weak, unstable regulatory framework.

In the face of these conditions and the associated threats to social peace, there is an urgent need for forward-looking, sustainable development strategies. The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung consequently supports informed, constructive debate about home and foreign affairs among young Cambodian leaders with the aim of generating proposals to solve these complex problems. In response to the socio-economic situation, it also promotes dialogue on industrial development between public and private players.

The key project partners implementing local activities are the Cambodian Institute of Development and Peace (CICP), TWARO (Asian and Pacific Regional Organisation of the International Textile, Garment and Leather Workers' Federation) and the Cambodian Institute of Development Study.

The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung does not have a country office in Cambodia. The cooperation programme is run by the Southeast Asia Regional Cooperation Office in Singapore.