Geneva, Switzerland: On the afternoon of June 8, 2026, Mr. Heng Sour, Minister of Labor and Vocational Training, met with Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labor Organization (ILO), during the 114th session of the International Labor Conference to review progress, strengthen cooperation on ongoing projects, and discuss TVET modernization and protection of Cambodian workers and employees.
On this occasion, the Minister expressed his deep appreciation and highly valued the achievements of the long-term and sustainable partnership between the ILO and Cambodia, highlighting key areas of cooperation, including: the Decent Work Country Programme 2024-2028, the Better Factories in Cambodia Project (ILO-Better Factories Cambodia) Decent Employment and Work for Youth Programme Phase III (DEY III) and the Global Accelerator-GA on Decent Work and Social Protection for Just Transitions.
With Cambodia’s renewed commitment to implementing the country’s Decent Work Programme 2024-2028 (DWCP), a key policy program for inclusive and sustainable development, Mr. Heng Sour highlighted that the ILO-BFC project is a testament to Cambodia’s commitment to international labor standards. At the same time, the two sides also discussed the Global Catalyst Project on Decent Work and Social Protection for a Just Transition, with the Minister highlighting Cambodia’s status as a Pathfinder Country to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth. He also expressed his commitment to continue to fully support the Director-General’s leadership in fulfilling the ILO’s mission and mandate to respond to the new challenges of the future of work.
In response, Gilbert F. Houngbo highly appreciated the active partnership between Cambodia and the ILO. He noted Cambodia’s progress, especially in promoting decent work, social protection, skills development, and social dialogue. He also welcomed Cambodia’s role as a pioneer of the Global Catalyst Initiative on Decent Work and Social Protection for Just Transitions, and reaffirmed the ILO’s continued support for Cambodia’s efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Goal 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth.
The two sides agreed to continue strengthening strategic cooperation between Cambodia and the ILO to respond to the new challenges of the future of work, technological change, artificial intelligence, climate change, and to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth for the Cambodian people.
Please note that Mr. Heng Sour is leading the Cambodian delegation to attend the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland. This important meeting will take place from June 1 to 12, 2026, and is attended by tripartite delegations from member states, including government representatives, employer representatives, and worker representatives, as well as other relevant parties.
