AKP Phnom Penh, June 16, 2026 --

Cambodia has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering girls and women as a cornerstone of social and national development during the opening of the 39th World Conference of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) and the 42nd Annual Meeting of The Olave Baden-Powell Society (OB-PS) held in Siem Reap provincial city.

Speaking at the opening ceremony at Sokha Siem Reap Resort and Convention Centre in Siem Reap province on Tuesday morning, Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony, Chief Commissioner of the Girl Guides Association of Cambodia (GGAC), emphasised that investing in girls and women contributes directly to building stronger communities and shaping the nation’s future.

“For Cambodia, the empowerment of girls, young women, and women is an important part of social and national development,” she said, adding that empowering women means empowering society and future generations.

The international gathering is being held in Siem Reap from June 14 to 19, 2026, under the theme “We See, We Care, We Act.”

Dr. Pich Chanmony explained that the theme reflects a collective commitment to recognising the potential, aspirations, and talents of girls and young women, listening to their voices and responding to their needs, and transforming compassion into meaningful action through opportunities and leadership development.

She stressed that creating a strong, just, and harmonious society begins with ensuring equal opportunities for every girl and young woman.

Highlighting the contribution of the Girl Guide Movement, she noted that the organisation equips girls and young women with essential life skills, including discipline, responsibility, teamwork, community service, leadership, and self-confidence.

“These are not small skills. They are the foundation that helps them become good daughters, good students, responsible citizens, and future leaders,” she said.

Dr. Pich Chanmony added that when girls are provided with education, encouragement, safety, and equal opportunities, they can transform not only their own lives but also positively influence their families, communities, and the country.

She also described the WAGGGS World Conference as the movement’s highest decision-making forum, bringing together member organisations from around the world to exchange experiences, define strategic priorities, and shape the future direction of the global Girl Guide Movement.

At the same time, the 42nd Annual OB-PS Meeting serves as a platform connecting supporters and donors committed to ensuring the sustainable growth of Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting worldwide.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, with the participation of HRH Azizah, Queen of the Malaysian State of Pahang; Ms. Candela Gonzalez, the WAGGGS World Board Chair; and Ms. Kaela Saenz Oriti, President of The OB-PS, along with delegates from more than 80 countries.
 
The WAGGGS World Conference is held every three years. The inaugural conference took place in the United Kingdom in 1920, while the previous edition was hosted by Cyprus in 2023.
By C. Nika