The National and International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is commemorated every year to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. This year’s theme is: “Disability Inclusion in All Sectors in the Digital Transformation Era”.
On 4 December 2024, the Australian Government, through the Australia-Cambodia Cooperation for Sustainable Services – Phase 2 (ACCESS 2) program, supported the Provincial Disability Action Council (PDAC) in Kampong Cham to celebrate the 42nd International Day and the 26th National Day of Persons with Disabilities. The event attracted about 400 participants, including sub-national authorities, non-governmental organisations, relevant institutions, and persons with disabilities. The aim was to raise awareness of disability inclusion and foster collective action to advance equal opportunities.
The ceremony was presided over by Kampong Cham Provincial Governor, H.E. Un Chanda. He acknowledged the tremendous accomplishments of PDAC in addressing the needs of persons with disabilities in Kampong Cham by collaborating with partners and relevant departments, all while adhering to the “No one is left behind” principle. To advance their rights and boost participation, he urged relevant officials—including those from the private sector and civil society—to employ persons with disabilities.
H.E. Un Chanda expressed appreciation for Australia’s support through ACCESS 2 and the engagement of relevant departments and institutions in addressing and promoting the needs of persons with disabilities to improve their quality of life.
Ms Nuon Sreynich, a participant with a disability, expressed her gratitude for the provincial governor’s leadership and the relevant institutions that support persons with disabilities and address their concerns in her province. She urged parents, guardians, families, and society to support and provide those with disabilities with additional opportunities to engage in society, helping to build an inclusive society free from discrimination.
Through the ACCESS 2 program, Australia works in partnership with the Royal Government of Cambodia and implementing partners to support persons with disabilities in Cambodia, aiming to improve their quality of life and increase access to quality and sustainable services.
