Challenges & Sustainable Development
Life Challenges - Facts & Figures
Two decades of war (Cambodia genocide, 1975-1979; Cambodian-Vietnamese war, 1979-1991) have seen the massive destruction of the social, economic and political systems in Cambodia. Since the turn of the century Cambodia has been working hard to rebuild and according to the World Bank it is now one of the fastest-gowing economies in the world. Statistics show that the poverty rate has descreased dramatically since 2007, however, many people remain near-poor, and vulnerable to falling back into poverty. Despite the economic achievements, health and education remain both important challenges and development priorities for Cambodia.
It’s hard to get firm numbers on the percentage of Cambodia’s population which is living with disabilities. Part of the problem stems from the stigma which surrounds disability in Cambodia; people with disabilities are regarded with fear and mistrust. A simple action like trying to sell goods to stay alive becomes a challenge when other merchants in the marketplace spit on you and drive you out because you are disabled, and it’s not surprising to learn that much of Cambodia’s disabled population lives in the shadows. (Source: Ensure Khemer Disabled Assistance Organization: EKDAO, 2007-2011)
People with disabilities are among the most vulnerable groups in Cambodian society. They lack equal access to education, training and employment. This constant lack of opportunity alienates them from fully participating in their communities. While many workers with disabilities have considerable skills, many have not had the opportunity to develop their potential. (Source: Inclusions of people with disabilities in Cambodia - ILO Fact sheet).
Cambodia: Education & Training
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) provide a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. They address some of the challenges disadvantaged people face in Cambodia: poverty, inequality, climate, environmental degradation, prosperity, peace and justice.
GFTV Development Priorities
In our endeavours to assist local Cambodian people living with disabilities we use the Sustainable Development goals to help:
SDG Education Resource
"2030 Not a Fairytale" a picture book by Arlene Gormley serves as an introduction to the global goals for young children. Arlene has kindly given us permission to upload a copy of her book on our website. If you like the book we encourage you to purchase a hard copy of the book as all profits are donated to Feeding Dreams Cambodia.