Paris: Cambodian Ambassador to France H.E. Luy David, representing the Kingdom at the Governance Board meeting of 'La Francophonie avec Elles' Fund in Paris on February 23, called for increased support for displaced women affected by the border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Luy David highlighted the growing vulnerability of Cambodian women amid the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict and its post-conflict humanitarian effects. The ambassador pointed out that the installation of shipping containers and barbed wire in occupied areas has impeded the safe return of displaced populations.
H.E. Luy David stated that more than 60,000 displaced individuals, including a significant number of women and girls, remain unable to return home and resume normal daily activities. He emphasized that women and girls are among the most affected by displacement, facing increased economic insecurity and social challenges.
The ambassador proposed that the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) prioritizes projects specifically designed to support displaced women and girls as part of the strategic guidelines for 2026. These initiatives would focus on strengthening their resilience, enhancing access to livelihood opportunities, and promoting greater economic autonomy.
The Governance Board Meeting was chaired by H.E. Ms. Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of the OIF. The session allowed board members to review the results achieved under the Fund's sixth edition in 2025 and discuss its strategic orientations for 2026. 'La Francophonie avec Elles' Fund aims to promote women's empowerment, economic resilience, and inclusive development across Francophone member states.