Phnom Penh — Cambodia’s Labour Minister Heng Sour has unveiled a comprehensive 19-point agenda aimed at strengthening employment opportunities, expanding social security coverage and enhancing workforce skills throughout 2026, officials confirmed at a recent press briefing. The multi-faceted plan is designed to support job creation and improve conditions for workers in both formal and informal sectors.
According to the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, the agenda targets key areas including job stimulation, vocational training expansion, strengthening labour market institutions and extending social security benefits. The action points are positioned to address evolving labour market needs amid economic changes and global trends.
Labour Minister Heng Sour highlighted the importance of skills development, with emphasis on technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs. Efforts under the agenda include enhancing partnerships with private-sector employers, updating curriculum standards, and improving access to training for youth and vulnerable groups seeking employment.
In addition, the agenda places priority on expanding social security initiatives to cover a broader segment of workers, particularly those in informal employment who traditionally lack formal protection. Measures include streamlining enrollment processes, raising awareness of benefits, and coordination with relevant stakeholders to ensure compliance.
The agenda also encompasses efforts to enhance labour inspection systems, promote safe workplace standards, and strengthen dispute resolution mechanisms to protect workers’ rights. Authorities said these integrated measures seek to balance job growth with quality and security across sectors.
Officials highlighted ongoing consultation with employers, worker representatives and development partners to refine action plans and monitor outcomes. Monitoring and evaluation frameworks are set to measure progress and inform adjustments where needed.
The 19-point agenda reflects the ministry’s strategic commitment to supporting Cambodian workers and aligning labour market development with socioeconomic goals for 2026 and beyond.
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