AKP Phnom Penh, March 20, 2026 -- Cambodian Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation on Thursday called for a more robust and inclusive social service framework to protect the country's most vulnerable citizens, marking a dual milestone for the nation's social work sector.

Speaking at the celebration of the 2nd National Social Work Day and the 19th World Social Work Day (Mar. 19), Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation H.E. Chea Somethy emphasised the need for professionalisation within the workforce to match Cambodia’s economic trajectory.

Under the theme “Building Hope and Harmony Together,” the event served as a platform to advocate for a more integrated support system for ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, and orphaned children.

"We must enhance the effectiveness and inclusiveness of our social services," H.E. Somethy told an audience of roughly 280 stakeholders, including Royal Government officials, academics, and international development partners. He noted that the initiative aims to elevate the public profile of social workers while ensuring that service delivery keeps pace with the country's broader developmental goals.

The ceremony highlights a push by the Royal Government of Cambodia to formalise its social safety nets, seeking to transition from traditional charity-based models to a professionalised system capable of addressing complex socio-economic challenges.

The gathering brought together a diverse cross-section of Cambodian society, including representatives from Muslim community and sub-national administrations, signaling a coordinated effort to decentralise support services across the Kingdom.

By K. Rithy Reak