The situation
Cambodia has been spared the brunt of the virus in our various areas of operation. In mid-March, the Cambodian government took strict measures to avoid population movements. Today, the kingdom remains one of the few countries not to have suffered any casualties. On the socio-economic front, however, there are major concerns, with the crisis affecting three of the country's economic engines: tourism, manufactured exports and foreign direct investment. These engines account for 70% of the country's growth and 40% of its paid employment. According to a recent World Bank report, the slowdown could lead to an increase in poverty estimated at between 3% and 11%. Families who depended on income sent back by their members who left to work in Thailand (90,000 migrant workers have returned since March 2020) now find themselves in a particularly precarious situation.
Our actions
The health crisis and its socio-economic impact have led to an increase in mental health problems and, here again, the poorest populations are the most affected. Faced with this situation, our local partners have adapted their actions. Psychological support units have been set up, with a 7/7 telephone helpline for patients and their families, as well as for nursing staff.
As for social workers, they have promoted prevention and awareness-raising initiatives linked to Covid-19.