AKP Phnom Penh, March 12, 2026 -- Cambodia’s First Lady Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet on Thursday presided over a commemorative "Walk for Long-Lasting Peace for All," marking the 115th International Women's Day in Phnom Penh.

The event drew approximately 1,700 participants who marched from Botum Vattey Pagoda to the historic Wat Phnom, symbolising a collective commitment to national stability and gender equality.

Addressing the crowd at the opening ceremony, Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony delivered a poignant message on the domestic and social value of tranquility.

"For a mother, peace is the ability to embrace her child without fear or the need to flee her home, for the home is the sanctuary for us all," she said. "For a young girl, peace means the confidence to develop herself and participate without discrimination, receiving honour and hope in return."

She further emphasised that for families, security provides the "harmonious environment and stability" necessary for children to grow into productive citizens.

The First Lady highlighted Cambodia’s historical "matriarchal" roots and its long-standing tradition of celebrating International Women's Day since 1977 to honour the struggle for freedom and equality.

Cambodia has emerged as a regional leader in gender-inclusive security efforts. According to the First Lady, the Kingdom currently ranks 13th out of 118 countries globally, and second within ASEAN, for the deployment of female peacekeepers under the United Nations umbrella.

By K. Rithy Reak