Cambodia

Number of people served: 5,000

Cambodia is a country of 16 million people, the majority of whom are of Khmer ethnicity. Ethnic minorities include Vietnamese, Chinese, and indigenous groups such as the Khmer Loeu and the Cham. Buddhism is the majority religion, but there is also a small Muslim population and an even smaller number of Christians.

Cambodia has a constitutional monarchy, but its politics are dominated by one party, which holds every seat in the National Assembly. The government is regularly accused of human rights violations, political oppression, and corruption.

Cambodia sends millions of migrant workers to neighbouring countries, 1 million currently working in Thailand alone.

Our work in Cambodia

JRS Cambodia operates a welcome centre in Phnom Penh, accompanying and serving urban refugees and members of the Montagnard ethnic group through social assistance and education. JRS Cambodia advocates for stateless people as well, assisting with the attainment of documents and education.

JRS Cambodia publishes research on relevant issues concerning refugees, and coordinates with the Metta Karuna reflection centre in Siem Reap, where visitors can come to heal and raise awareness about the struggles they face in a safe, interfaith environment. Each year, JRS Cambodia organizes a regional workshop at the centre.

See our work

Fr Thomas H Smolich SJ, JRS International Director, visits the JRS Cambodia team.
Fr Thomas H Smolich SJ, JRS International Director, visits the JRS Cambodia team. (Jesuit Refugee Service)
Reconciliation workshop.
Reconciliation workshop. (Jesuit Refugee Service)

Contact

JRS Cambodia Country Director

Denise Coghlan

denisecoghlan@yahoo.com.au

Project locations:

Phnom Penh, Siem Reap

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