Phnom Penh – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Cambodia, with support from the Government of Japan, has started implementing a new project to support the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) to strengthen border management and reinforce protection for migrants.  

Cambodia is a country of origin, transit, and destination for migrant workers. In recent years, the incidence of transnational organized crime (TOC) has been increasing throughout Southeast Asia, including Cambodia. A growing number of migrant workers are being lured into countries under false pretenses and forced to work in illegal industries including online scam centers. In addition to human trafficking, money laundering, drug smuggling and other activities are deeply intertwined in transnational crime requiring coordinated efforts across the government.  

The project's primary focus is on improving the capacity of frontline officials at border points to identify, assess and manage risks including those that may be related to transnational crime. Additionally, the project will enable the provision of immediate assistance, such as shelter, food, and medical care to vulnerable migrants in Cambodia.  

Japan’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Cambodia UENO Atsushi said, “Transnational organized crime, including human trafficking and online scam, is a serious and imminent challenge to this region today. It affects the country’s reputation as well as its social and economic activities. We need to address this challenge by enhancing cooperation among concerned parties and by strengthening the capacity of Cambodian authorities.”   

“The Government of Japan believes that IOM’s expertise and know-how will contribute significantly to the prevention of transnational organized crime, the protection of human rights, and the safety in the region. We hope that Cambodian side make the best use of this programme,” added Ambassador UENO. 

Welcoming the project, Nellie Ghusayni, IOM’s Chief of Mission in Cambodia said, “This project will not only enable us to provide urgent assistance to vulnerable migrants in Cambodia but will directly support the Royal Government of Cambodia in strengthening border governance.” She added that this was essential for enhancing border security, protecting the rights of all travelers, and addressing the increasing threats of transnational crime. “IOM Cambodia is grateful for the Government of Japan for their generous support and commitment to protecting the most vulnerable.” 

The project will run for 12 months and provide support to the General Department of Immigration and the General Commissariat of National Police of the Ministry of Interior, the General Department of Customs and Excises of Ministry of Economics and Finance, Ministry of Social and Veteran Affairs, and National Committee for Counter Trafficking among other key stakeholders.  

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For media enquiries, please contact Mr. Dmitriy Tsoy, IOM Cambodia Project Development and Reporting Officer at dtsoy@iom.int.