In Cambodia, more than half of the population aged 15 to 49 is active in the economy. The young population is a potential resource to drive policy and governance changes in Cambodia.
The National Policy on Youth Development 2011 has a clear vision of youth capacity development and provides them opportunities to develop their potential in education, to work in a fair and healthy way, and to participate in decision-making and community and national development. Promoting youth participation in all sectors of society, as well as in decision-making processes at all levels, can benefit both youths and the decision-making government. In addition, participation by the youth strengthens their understanding of relevant issues and enhances their sense of responsibility to address them.
In support of and contributing to the implementation of this policy, Transparency International Cambodia and Oxfam have jointly organized discussions on various topics, such as national budget, among youth groups.
National budget revenue plays an important role in national development, particularly investment in social and economic development. All citizens should be aware of and contribute to the increase of national budget revenue, making suggestions on the efficient distribution and use of the national budget to address poverty and inequality in society. National budget investments must meet the needs of people, especially the vulnerable groups in our society.
It is also the second time that Transparency International Cambodia and Oxfam Cambodia have organized this forum to enhance youth capacity in order to collect and analyze information and also to increase the depth of public presentations and discussions. We were delighted to see so much interest from youths, especially that of the young women who participated in the debate with their capacities and talents.
PIcture: Transparency International Cambodia