AKP Phnom Penh, April 21, 2026 --

The National Assembly of Cambodia organised on April 21 a two-day “Mock Parliament” programme aimed at strengthening youth leadership and advancing women’s participation in civic and political life at the National Assembly Palace.

The opening ceremony was presided over by H.E. Vong Sauth, Second Vice-President of the National Assembly.

The event brought together approximately 230 participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family of the Republic of Korea, UNFPA, UN Women, the “For All Women and Girls” initiative, and students from higher education institutions across Cambodia, alongside lawmakers, government officials, and development partners.

In her welcome remarks, H.E. Ms. Lork Kheng, Chairwoman of the National Assembly’s 8th Commission and President of the Cambodian Women Parliamentarians Caucus, said the initiative aims to equip young women with leadership skills, civic awareness, and practical experience in parliamentary processes.

“This programme is not only about learning parliamentary procedures, but also about inspiring young women to believe in their potential and step forward as future leaders,” she said, noting that the initiative builds on the #Girls2Leader campaign.

Delivering the keynote address, H.E. Vladanka Andreeva, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cambodia, highlighted the importance of inclusive leadership and meaningful youth participation in decision-making.

She reaffirmed the United Nations’ support for gender equality and youth empowerment, stressing that investing in young people—especially young women, is essential for sustainable development. 

She also encouraged participants to actively engage, share their perspectives, and take on leadership roles.

In his opening address, Hon. Vong Sauth emphasised that the programme goes beyond a simulation, serving as a bridge between current and future leaders.

“Youth are not only beneficiaries of public policies, but also key contributors in shaping them,” he said, urging participants to express their ideas with confidence.

He underscored that investing in youth is critical to Cambodia’s long-term development and highlighted the need to strengthen both leadership capacity and civic responsibility among young people.

The programme reflects Cambodia’s commitment to gender equality and women’s leadership, aligning with national development priorities. While progress has been made, challenges persist, most notably the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles.

During the programme, participants will engage in simulated parliamentary debates and decision-making processes, addressing key issues such as climate change, workplace safety, and the prevention of violence against women.

Supported by development partners including UN Women and UNFPA, the initiative demonstrates continued collaboration in promoting youth empowerment and inclusive development.

The “Mock Parliament” marks a significant step toward nurturing a new generation of informed, confident, and socially responsible leaders, in line with Cambodia’s national priorities under the Pentagonal Strategy Phase I and the Neary Rattanak Strategy, which emphasise gender equality and women’s leadership.

By Chea Vannak