Cambodia is gearing up to host the second annual Social Protection Week, with the aim of strengthening social security efficiency and transparency.

The National Social Protection Council is hosting the programme under the theme “Strengthening the efficiency and transparency of the social protection system in Cambodia”, from February 13 to 15.

It is expected to attract about 1,000 people from relevant government institutions, UN agencies, development partners, regional bodies, the private sector, academia and civil society organisations that are involved in the design and implementation of social protection in Cambodia.

“Trust is the most essential precondition for society, as well as for Social Protection. When people trust each other, they can work together and cooperate for common purposes. The social contract between the state and citizens is built upon trust,” a statement from the Ministry of Economy and Finance announcing the event said.

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“Trust allows the state to have a strong capacity to carry through reforms to implement them and effectively collect funds to support the Social Protection's schemes and programmes.”

The week-long programme of events will see three days of workshops, forums and discussions take place at Sokha Phnom Penh Residence. For the rest of the week, participants are encouraged to continue activities within their communities.

It will be formally opened with a speech from Aun Pornmoniroth, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Economy and Finance, and Chairman of the National Social Protection Council. The raft of speakers includes Dr Ky Santy, Director of Kantha Bopha Hospital, Scott Neeson, Founder of Cambodia Children’s Fund, and Phean Sophoan, National Director of Oxfam in Cambodia.

Topics to be discussed include the development of Cambodia’s social protection policies, strengthening Social Protection mechanisms to be transparent and accountable, and ensuring accountability through the delivery of Social Protection.

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The aim of the week, according to the announcement, is to “serve as a forum for the respective ministries, institutions, development partners and all relevant stakeholders to discuss challenges and best practices at national and international levels, as well as what they have accomplished in the past years and their future plans for expanding and strengthening social protection in Cambodia”.

Social Protection week was first hosted last year by the National Social Protection Council and the United Nations under the theme, “Towards building Social Protection in Cambodia for all”.

The event will also be broadcast live on Facebook for those unable to attend in person.