With the support of the Australian Government, the ACCESS 2 program continues to be a cornerstone in Australia’s bilateral investment in gender-based violence (GBV) prevention, disability inclusion, and rehabilitation in Cambodia. Through strengthened collaboration with national and sub-national governments, civil society, non-government organisations (NGOs), Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), and Indigenous communities, ACCESS 2 aims to ensure that persons with disabilities and survivors of GBV have improved access to essential services.
Expanding Provincial Reach for Greater Impact
ACCESS 2 operates in four target provinces—Kampong Speu, Kampong Cham, Siem Reap, and Ratanakiri—alongside its head office in Phnom Penh. To bolster its efforts at the sub-national level, ACCESS 2 has appointed three provincial advisors in Kampong Speu, Siem Reap, and Kampong Cham. These advisors are pivotal in driving the program’s initiatives by facilitating execution, enhancing coordination, and ensuring effective monitoring.
The successful establishment of provincial offices within local government structures—Siem Reap Provincial Hall and the Provincial Department of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation (PoSVY) in Kampong Speu and Kampong Cham—has further embedded ACCESS 2 within the community. These strategic office locations not only fosters collaboration with Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) counterparts and Strategic Implementing Partners (SIPs) but also streamlines communication, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of ACCESS 2 initiatives.
Voices from the Field: Driving Change Locally
Mr. Key Sarun, Provincial Advisor in Kampong Speu, shared his motivation for working with persons with disabilities and GBV survivors. “Working with ACCESS 2 allows me to contribute to creating a more equitable and inclusive society. The tangible changes we facilitate inspire me daily, knowing that our efforts are recognised and genuinely make a difference.”
In Kampong Cham, Mr. Ky Oeun emphasised the importance of advocacy in his role. “Supporting persons with disabilities and GBV survivors through my expertise fosters inclusivity and drives positive change. The conducive work environment and strategic office location enable me to build valuable networks with sub-national officials, enhancing our collective impact.”
Ms. Phoeurk Sida, Provincial Advisor in Siem Reap, highlighted her commitment to fostering a society of dignity and respect. “My work with ACCESS 2 focuses on creating a society free from discrimination, ensuring everyone enjoys a better quality of life. The collaborative environment here enables me to effectively coordinate with SIPs and government counterparts, amplifying our impact.”
Strengthening Infrastructure for Sustainable Outcomes
The concerted efforts of GBV, Disability Inclusion, and Rehabilitation Leads, Provincial Advisors, and the Operations Team have transformed the provincial offices into functional and supportive environments. With the planned appointment of a Decentralisation Lead (DL) in February 2025, based in Phnom Penh, the provincial advisors will receive enhanced supervision and support, reinforcing the program’s capacity to achieve its Intermediate and End of Investment Outcomes.
Driving Inclusive Progress in Cambodia
The establishment of ACCESS 2 provincial offices marks a significant milestone in advancing inclusivity at the sub-national level. By embedding dedicated advisors within local government structures, ACCESS 2 strengthens its capacity to address the needs of Cambodia’s most vulnerable populations. Through this initiative, the program is well-positioned to foster a more inclusive society and deliver meaningful, lasting change for all Cambodians. – Together, we are building a more inclusive future for all.