In a remarkable display of dedication to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, Prime Minister Hun Manet presided over the opening of the 7th general assembly of the Friends of Asia Pacific WAGGGS (FAPW) in Siem Reap on November 5, 2023. The event, themed “Imagine the Possibilities,” drew more than 150 participants from over 10 countries, emphasizing the importance of women’s leadership in shaping a safer, more beautiful, and kinder world.
Prime Minister Hun Manet used this platform to highlight the vital role of women in leadership, underscoring the potential for a more inclusive and compassionate society with increased female representation in leadership roles. He reaffirmed the Cambodian government’s unwavering commitment to advancing gender equality and prioritizing the rights of women and girls in its policy agenda.
“I believe that a world led by more women will not only be safer but also more beautiful and compassionate. The Cambodian government has placed a strong emphasis on gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in all our policies,” he declared.
The assembly of the FAPW, a regional body of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), marked a historic occasion not only for Cambodia but also for the entire Asia Pacific region. The privilege of hosting this global event serves as a testament to the progress of this association within the country, made possible by Cambodia’s environment of peace, stability, and unity.
Prime Minister Hun Manet commended both local and international scouts for their unwavering dedication to promoting and empowering women and girls. He called upon all governments and stakeholders to unite with the women scout movement to ensure the success of this invaluable mission.
His wife, Pich Chanmony, who serves as the general commissioner of The Girl Guides Association of Cambodia (GGAC), shared her enthusiasm for the event. She highlighted the inclusivity of the women scout movement, emphasizing that it transcends affiliations, social status, race, and color, operating as a voluntary association where members join willingly, with no impact on their studies.
The Friends of Asia Pacific WAGGGS was established in 1999, with its patron, Queen Azizah Iskander of Pahang, Malaysia, and President Juseon Byun of South Korea. Byun expressed gratitude to Cambodia for warmly hosting the assembly, acknowledging the country’s support for women scouts in the region.
In a thrilling announcement, Cambodia is set to host the 39th WAGGGS Conference in 2026, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls on a global scale.
The 7th FAPW assembly in Siem Reap is a shining example of Cambodia’s dedication to creating a brighter and more inclusive future, where women and girls play an essential role in shaping a compassionate and harmonious world. It is a testament to the progress and vision of a nation that recognizes the potential of women in leadership and actively works towards achieving gender equality.
