Phnom penh: The Government of Japan has allocated nearly US$1 million to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to enhance employment opportunities for Cambodian migrant workers returning from Thailand. H.E. Heng Sour, Cambodian Minister of Labour and Vocational Training, was present at the signing ceremony of the project 'Promoting Livelihoods and Employment for Returned Migrant Workers Affected by the Border Conflict'. The agreement was signed by H.E. UENO Atsushi, Ambassador of Japan to Cambodia, and Ms. Xiaoyan Qian, Director of the ILO Office for Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand, at the Japanese Embassy in Phnom Penh.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the 24-month project will be executed by the ILO in collaboration with Cambodia's Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, funded by the Japanese Government. The initiative is designed to facilitate returning migrant workers' access to decent employment and their reintegration into the local economy. It will provide a comprehensive package of support, including livelihood assistance, employment services, and skill development.
The project plans to establish three new Migrant Worker Resource Centres in Oddar Meanchey, Pursat, and Preah Vihear, regions with high numbers of returnees. These centres will offer counselling, outreach activities, data collection, and legal aid to returning workers. Further, the project will engage with employers and workers' organisations to address labour market needs, organise job fairs, and conduct awareness campaigns, particularly in sectors like garment manufacturing, construction, and production. Additionally, skills upgrading will be provided through short-term courses, job readiness training, and entrepreneurship development to ensure sustainable reintegration.
Ambassador UENO Atsushi remarked on Japan's commitment to assisting Cambodia and the ILO in addressing the needs of returning workers, highlighting Japan's dedication to human security and regional stability. He emphasized the project as a reaffirmation of the long-standing partnership between Japan and Cambodia.
Minister Heng Sour highlighted the necessity of a coordinated national response to the return of Cambodian migrant workers. He noted that the project aligns with Cambodia's human resource development strategy, strengthening connections between returning workers, skills development, and sustainable livelihoods.
Ms. Xiaoyan Qian expressed gratitude for Japan's support, stating that the project will enhance national reintegration systems by linking skills recognition, job matching, and social protection, ensuring comprehensive assistance for returning workers.
Minister Heng Sour extended his appreciation to Japan for their support and thanked the ILO for its cooperation, emphasizing the importance of empowering returning migrant workers to rebuild stable and productive lives in Cambodia.