On 12 May, the Asian Population and Development Association (APDA) and Asian Forum of Parliamentarians on Population and Development (AFPPD), together with the National Assembly of Cambodia, Cambodian Association of Parliamentarians on Population and Development (CAPPD) and Ministry of Planning, co-organized a high-level seminar titled “Parliamentary Workshop on Cambodia Strategic Framework 2024-2030 for Accelerating the Implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action” at the National Assembly Building in Phnom Penh. The seminar brought together approximately 280 participants, including Members of the Senate and National Assembly, Chairs and Members of the Special Committee comprising of 22 ministries, as well as representatives from government ministries and international organizations.

In 2024, Cambodia became the first country in the Asian region to launch a national strategic framework for ICPD implementation—the Cambodia Strategic Framework 2024–2030 (CSF). The CSF aims to address emerging demographic challenges, such as rapid urbanization, population ageing and internal migration, while promoting sustainable human capital development and ensuring inclusive growth and equitable opportunities for all Cambodians.

In her opening address, H.E. Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly, described the seminar as a vital platform to reflect on the country’s progress, achievements, and remaining challenges in implementing the ICPD Programme of Action over the past 30 years and presented a Call to Action, encouraging all stakeholders to intensify their efforts toward achieving the CSF goals. She also extended her deep respect to Chair of CAPPD Hon. Men Sam An, on the occasion of its 25th anniversary, for her visionary leadership in establishing and advancing the association. In addition, she expressed appreciation to Hon. Lork Kheng, Vice Chair of AFPPD, for fostering collaboration with key partners such as AFPPD, APDA and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in organizing this event. To address Cambodia’s population challenges, participants emphasized the importance of leveraging global best practices and high-quality demographic data, enhancing intersectoral coordination, and strengthening legislative oversight.

This programme was supported by the Japan Trust Fund (JTF), UNFPA and International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF). CAPPD expressed its apprecaiton to JPFP and APDA for its support in the founding of the association.