AKP Phnom Penh, March 28, 2025 --

The Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC) and UN Women in partnership with the Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX) and ACLEDA Bank Plc., co-hosted early this week the country's first-ever Ring the Bell for Gender Equality event at ACLEDA Bank Headquarters.

The event marked a historic moment in Cambodia's ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and women's empowerment in the financial and corporate sectors.

Part of a global initiative that brings together stock exchanges worldwide, Ring the Bell for Gender Equality commemorates International Women's Day by highlighting the vital role of gender equality in economic growth. Under the 2025 theme, "Ring the Bell for ALL Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment.”

The event underscored the need for collective action to advance the rights and opportunities of women and girls. By joining this movement, SERC, UN Women Cambodia, ACLEDA Bank and CSX reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable economic future for all Cambodians.

A Call for Action from Industry Leaders Speaking on the significance of the event, Mrs. Khun Sophea, UN Women Country Programme Coordinator, emphasised that this initiative is more than just a symbolic gesture.

"For the first time, Cambodia rang the bell for gender equality, bringing businesses together in a shared commitment to creating a future where all women and girls have equal opportunities. This movement is about action-breaking down barriers, closing opportunity gaps, and building a society where every woman and girl can thrive. The private sector plays a crucial role in driving this change, and their engagement is indispensable in this journey," she said.

The Ring the Bell for Gender Equality initiative, supported by the UN Global Compact, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative, UN Women, the World Federation of Exchanges, aims to highlight the business case for gender inclusion.

It also promotes the Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs), developed by UN Women and the UN Global Compact, as a framework for advancing gender equality in the workplace, marketplace, and community.

H.E. Hong Sok Hour, Royal Government Delegate in charge as CEO of CSX, highlighted CSX's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive corporate culture.

"At CSX, we have continuously implemented key principles that encourage women's engagement, leadership opportunities, and professional development. Empowering women is not just a moral obligation-it's a driver of sustainable and creative growth. When women actively participate in organisations, productivity and efficiency improve, leading to stronger national economic performance," he said.

Reflecting on the regulatory role in advancing financial inclusion, H.E. Sou Socheat, Director General of the SERC, emphasised the long-term benefits of gender diversity in financial markets. "This successful collaboration has paved the way for gender equality and financial inclusion in Cambodia. As the securities market regulator, SERC is committed to fostering inclusive policies that empower women in economic activities and ensure that gender is never a barrier to success. Investing in gender equality is not just the right thing to do-it's a smart economic strategy. Diverse leadership strengthens decision-making, enhances risk management, and promotes long-term financial stability," H.E. Sou Socheat said.

Panel Discussion on Business Leadership for Gender Equality

Following the bell-ringing ceremony, a panel discussion titled The Role of Business in Gender Equality featured representatives from IFC, UN Women, Cambodia Securities Exchange, SERC, and ACLEDA Bank. The discussion explored the importance of women's leadership in business, workplace inclusivity, and economic empowerment, highlighting how gender equality strengthens corporate performance and community development.

Ms. Amara Mar, Senior Group Chief Financial Officer of ACLEDA, reiterated the private sector's responsibility in advocating for gender equality.

"I extend my gratitude to UN Women, the UN Global Compact, and our partners SERC and CSX for co-organising this landmark event. This occasion is not just about raising awareness but about strengthening a movement that champions the rights and empowerment of women and girls everywhere. At ACLEDA Bank, we actively embrace diversity and inclusion, ensuring that women's voices are heard and valued at every level. Together, we can drive gender equality, bringing social and economic benefits to all," she said.

A Commitment to an Inclusive Future

The Ring the Bell for Gender Equality event reinforced the dedication of Cambodia's financial institutions to fostering a fairer and more equitable economic environment. By participating in this global initiative, SERC, CSX, and ACLEDA Bank affirmed their long-term commitment to gender-inclusive business practices, ensuring that Cambodian women and girls have greater access to leadership roles, economic opportunities, and financial independence.

As Cambodia moves forward, this historic event serves as a catalyst for continued efforts in bridging gender gaps, empowering women, and building a more prosperous future for all.

By Chea Vannak