UN-Led Initiative Connects Returning Migrant Workers and Youth to Decent Jobs in Battambang Province

Strategic Insights -

Cambodia's Battambang province, with a population of 997,169 and a robust labour force participation rate of 76%, has become a hub for decent employment opportunities in various sectors, including tourism, food-processing, and automotive. To address the labour market needs of returning migrant workers, youth, and vulnerable groups, the National Employment Agency (NEA) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) organized a provincial employment forum in Battambang, bringing together over 1,000 attendees, including migrant returnees, youth, and persons with disabilities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The forum aimed to address labour market needs, focusing on youth, persons with disabilities, returning migrant workers, and other vulnerable groups.
  • Over 1,000 attendees, including migrant returnees, youth, and persons with disabilities, interacted with national and international companies, institutions, and training providers on employment prospects and capacity building initiatives.
  • Battambang province has a strong economy supported by 49,748 businesses, employing approximately 121,845 individuals, with a total population of 997,169 accounting for 6.4% of the population.
  • The province holds a 76% labour force participation rate, with a diverse workforce potential, and plays a significant role in aiding the government with job placement and reintegration of returning migrants.
  • The ILO has been instrumental in the successful organization of this employment event, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups, including women, persons with disabilities, and returning migrants.
  • The National Employment Agency (NEA) of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training values the collaboration and support of all stakeholders, particularly the ILO and UNICEF.
  • The ILO and UNICEF contributed to the organization of this important employment event, supporting the Government of Cambodia in implementing its Fifteenth Plan for Social Progress and Reforms (1975-1988).

Statistics:

  • Battambang province has a total population of 997,169, accounting for 6.4% of the population.
  • The province has a labour force participation rate of 76%, with 76% of individuals aged 15 and above actively engaged in the workforce.
  • The province has 49,748 businesses, employing approximately 121,845 individuals.
  • The province is home to a diverse workforce with significant potential, and plays a crucial role in aiding the government with job placement and the effective reintegration of returning migrants.
  • The number of attendees at the provincial employment forum exceeded 1,000, including migrant returnees, youth, and persons with disabilities.

Sources:

  • General Population Census of the Kingdom of Cambodia.
  • Socio-Economic Census of Cambodia 2022.
  • ILO Country Office for Thailand, Cambodia and Lao People's Democratic Republic.
  • National Employment Agency (NEA) of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training.
  • International Labour Organization (ILO).