(Kandal): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said that Cambodian children continue to face a number of challenges, including child abuse, exploitation and trafficking, drug use and substance abuse, displacement, the impact of migration, school dropouts, and malnutrition.

Samdech Thipadei added that addressing these issues requires timely and targeted action from ministries, institutions, authorities at all levels, civil society organizations, the private sector, communities, and parents or guardians.

The premier spoke on Wednesday (Jul. 23) during an official inauguration of the Lotus Center, located in Takhmao City, Kandal Province.

“Despite progress, Cambodian children still face numerous challenges, such as child abuse, exploitation and trafficking, substance abuse, displacement, the consequences of migration, dropping out of school, and malnutrition. These issues demand immediate and coordinated solutions involving all relevant stakeholders, including ministries, authorities at all levels, civil society, the private sector, communities, and parents,” the premier underscored.

Samdech Thipadei noted that in response to these challenges, the Royal Government has introduced several policies and official legal frameworks aimed at protecting and promoting the well-being of Cambodian children. Notably, the Cambodian National Council for Children was established in 2009, and the National Policy on the Child Protection System (2019-2029) was adopted.

The premier added that in 2020, the government launched the National Action Plan on the Prevention and Response to Violence Against Children (2025–2030). The Cambodian National Council for Children plays a crucial role as a coordinating and advisory body to the government on issues concerning children's survival, development, protection, well-being, and participation.
=FRESH NEWS