70%
Of women are in vulnerable employment
Gender inequality
Girls and women are disadvantaged in Cambodian society. Girls are more likely to be underweight and stunted than boys. They also drop out of school more often than boys, especially at secondary level. Many are forced to marry at an early age. Children in female-headed households are particularly vulnerable, as women tend to have less access to land and, fewer means of making a living.
70% of women are in vulnerable employment, such as in the 5 billion USD garment industry, which is driving the country's economic growth. Women often migrate to cities for work, where they work long hours for low wages.
1 in 20
Children have been sexually assaulted
Child protection
Child labour is an everyday reality for many children in Kampot. These children are at risk of exploitation and abuse, many are separated from their parents, and some end up as victims of human trafficking.
More than half of all Cambodian children have experienced physical violence, including beating; emotional and sexual abuse. One in 20 children have been sexually assaulted according to UNICEF’s study on child protection.
Your support makes a difference for children in Kampot
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
Learn at our kindergarten and school
80
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
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Playing together. After visiting kindergarten or school, children often spend time outdoors with their brothers and sisters (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Cambodia).
How your support helps in Kampot
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run training so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start their own businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.