PHNOM PENH — Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet delivered an inspiring address urging Cambodian youth to relentlessly pursue their ambitions and develop critical skills, while strongly reaffirming the government’s support for transparent civil society organizations.
Speaking on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the 30th anniversary celebration of the renowned non-governmental organization Pour un Sourire d’Enfant (PSE) in Phnom Penh, the Premier highlighted human resource development and self-reliance as the core pillars of Cambodia’s future growth.
Youth Urged to Build Skills and Persevere Over Background
Addressing the graduates and attendees, PM Hun Manet underlined that youth serve as the backbone of the nation. He emphasized that the country’s progress relies heavily on a new generation equipped with deep knowledge, technical skills, and unyielding determination.
In a powerful message on social mobility, the Prime Minister stated that success is driven by personal effort and resilience rather than family background, pointing out that many senior government officials rose from humble beginnings through hard work after the Khmer Rouge era.
The Premier focused heavily on two critical concepts for youth development:
- The Power of Dreams and Hope: He explained that dreams provide a vital direction while hope gives individuals the strength to move forward. “Losing hope is equivalent to closing the door on one’s own opportunities,” he noted, urging youth to let no one limit their aspirations.
- Lifelong Learning: Education extends far beyond the traditional classroom. Continuous self-improvement and practical, ground-level experience are vital for personal and professional advancement in a rapidly shifting global economy.
Government Backs Transparent Civil Society, Redefines Human Rights
Addressing criticisms regarding civic space, PM Hun Manet dismissed claims that the government restricts civil society organizations. He clarified that Cambodia fully supports groups that operate transparently, effectively, and in the genuine interest of the public, citing PSE as a premier example of constructive partnership.
With thousands of registered associations and NGOs operating in Cambodia, the Premier drew a clear distinction between service-oriented organizations and those focused entirely on criticism. He argued that groups providing tangible benefits—such as education, healthcare, and vocational training—are actively advancing human rights on the ground.
“Freedom and human rights are not limited to the right to criticise or protest,” the Prime Minister stated. “The right to education is a human right. The right to healthcare is a human right. The right to social welfare and well-being is also a human right.”
He concluded that by expanding access to technical skills and literacy, genuine civil society organizations deliver the ultimate form of empowerment, stating emphatically that “knowledge itself is freedom.”
A Development Philosophy Rooted in Self-Reliance
A central theme of the Prime Minister’s speech was the classic “teach a man to fish” philosophy, which he described as the bedrock of sustainable national development. While providing immediate, short-term relief to vulnerable populations is necessary, he explained that equipping citizens with long-term knowledge and skills fosters true independence and creative thinking.
Rather than waiting for instructions or external aid, the Premier called on the next generation to actively build their own capabilities, adapt to changing socio-economic circumstances, and innovate. He urged all active civil society organizations to strengthen constructive, sincere cooperation with the government and development partners to collectively address social challenges and elevate Cambodia’s human capital.
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