PHNOM PENH – Prime Minister Hun Manet has called on all provincial governors to enhance services for persons with disabilities and prioritize the development of accessible facilities.

As the country commemorates the 26th National Day and the 42nd International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, under the theme “Disability Inclusion in All Sectors in the Digital Era,” Manet emphasized the importance of digital inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

Speaking on November 29, the prime minister urged all ministries and institutions to focus on building the capacity of officials with disabilities in utilizing digital technologies and improving the quality and effectiveness of services provided to them.

Manet further stressed the need for public and private sectors to construct public spaces and buildings that are accessible to all persons with disabilities.

Simultaneously, the government has announced the implementation of the National Disability Strategic Plan 2024-2028 which outlines a comprehensive approach to address the needs and rights of children, youth, and the elderly living with disabilities.

According to the Ministry of Social Affairs spokesperson Touch Channy, the plan prioritizes several key areas. One of the main focuses is to create more job opportunities and improve economic conditions for people with disabilities. By providing access to vocational training and employment support services, the government aims to empower individuals with disabilities and enable them to contribute to society.

Another crucial aspect of the plan is to ensure that people with disabilities have access to quality healthcare, rehabilitation services, and social welfare programs. The government is committed to improving healthcare infrastructure and providing specialized care to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.

Education is also a key priority. The government aims to create inclusive learning environments that cater to the diverse needs of students with disabilities. By providing assistive technology, specialized training for teachers, and accessible infrastructure, the government strives to ensure that all children have equal opportunities to learn and succeed.

Furthermore, the plan emphasizes the importance of social protection and sustainable livelihoods. By strengthening social safety nets and promoting inclusive economic development, the government aims to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for people with disabilities.

To build resilience to climate change and natural disasters, said spokesperson Channy, the government is taking steps to ensure that people with disabilities are included in disaster preparedness and response plans. By providing early warning systems, evacuation plans, and emergency shelters that are accessible to people with disabilities, the government aims to minimize the impact of disasters on vulnerable populations.

As of October 2024, 3,816 persons with disabilities, including 882 women, are employed in the ministries.

Meanwhile, the private sector employs 5,684 persons with disabilities, of whom 3,578 are women. 

The Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation is implementing a disability identification program, distributing 250,730 state identification cards to persons with disabilities.

Cambodia has celebrated the National and International Day of Persons with Disabilities since 1999 in order to promote and respect the rights and freedom of persons with disabilities, eliminate discrimination against them, and encourage their inclusion in economic, social, cultural, political activities.

Originally written in Khmer for ThmeyThmey, this story was translated by Rin Ousa for Cambodianess.