Employment Policy Convention, 1964 (No. 122) - Cambodia (RATIFICATION: 1971)

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Articles 1 and 3 of the Convention. Formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. Consultations with social partners. The Committee notes with interest the detailed information provided by the government on the progress achieved in the implementation of the HYPERLINK "https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/National-Employment-Policy-2015-2025-of-the-Royal-Government-of-Cambodia.pdf" National Employment Policy 2015-2025 (NEP). The Committee nevertheless notes that the Government does not provide a copy of the NEP progress reports to which it refers. In this respect, it notes the indication of the Government that, according to the NEP progress report for 2018, the review of the implementation of the National Employment Policy by relevant ministries and institutions demonstrates that the Government has taken the right path to achieving the three main goals of the NEP by 2025. In this regard, the Government refers to progress made in increasing decent and productive employment opportunities (Goal 1), enhancing skills and human resource development (Goal 2) and enhancing labour market governance (Goal 3). The Committee notes various measures taken by the Government for the implementation of these goals. In particular, it notes that, in accordance with the objectives of Goal 1 of the NEP, measures have been taken for sustaining national macroeconomic stability and promoting Small-Medium Enterprises (SMEs). With regard to employment, the Government indicates that ministries and institutions have strengthened the effectiveness and extended the scope of job placement services by creating three new job centres as well as mobile job centres (the total number of job centres increased to 13) and by organizing career fairs, mobile career fairs, and career forums. In addition, the Government refers to other measures being implemented by ministries and institutions to improve working conditions (the healthcare scheme, the social security scheme, the allowance allocation programme for post-natal workers) and strengthen existing mechanisms (the grievance mechanism for migrant workers and the enhancement of labour inspection). The Committee notes that the Government has also expanded its labour market overseas (Japan, Malaysia, Republic of Korea), taken measures to enhance the capacity of technical officers (at both the central and provincial levels), private recruitment agencies and relevant stakeholders to familiarise them concerning laws, relevant regulations, and procedures on managing migrant workers and providing overseas employment services. With regard to foreign labour management, the Government indicates that it has strengthened the implementation of the Labour Law, Immigration Law, and other regulations concerning the management of foreign labour in the Kingdom of Cambodia. The Government further refers to regular labour inspections conducted in this regard in enterprises and establishments. Regarding the impact of the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) for 2019–2023, the Government indicates that more women, men, youth, and disadvantaged groups in Cambodia have access to decent and productive work as a result of increased economic diversification, productivity, competitiveness, and development of the digital economy. The Committee notes that public employment services expanded to serve 6,000 rural young job seekers. The Government indicates that, overall, 18 656 job seekers (10 491 women and 36 persons with disabilities) registered with the National Employment Agency (NEA) in 2019, of which 7 126 were young workers (3 875 women and 9 persons with disabilities). With regard to the participation of the social partners, the Government indicates that the implementation of the DWCP has improved social dialogue, industrial relations, and rights at work in line with international labour standards, including for migrant workers. It further indicates that 150 union leaders participated in and contributed to the policy and legislative processes (labour migration policy, new social security law, amendments to the trade union law and labour law, and implementing regulations) as well as pension scheme development. The Committee notes that a tripartite mechanism has been created to negotiate and determine the minimum wage in the textile, garment, and footwear industry and to examine social and economic causes and impacts that the increase to the minimum wage had on the welfare and labour productivity of workers in the garment sector in Cambodia in 2018. The Committee further notes that the Government does not provide recent information onbudgetary resources. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the nature, scope and impact of specific measures undertaken within the framework of the National Employment Policy 2015-2025 and the Decent Work Country Programme 2019–2023 with the objective of creating opportunities for decent, productive, and sustainable employment. The Committee once again invites the Government to provide information on the steps taken to build the requisite capacity and allocate the budgetary resources necessary to ensure the successful implementation of the NEP. The Government is also requested to communicate a copy of the most recent NEP progress report.

Article 2. Labour market statistics and information. The Committee notes the statistics provided by the Government on employment and unemployment rates by age group in Cambodia in 2019. The Government indicates that, according to the 2019 census, the employment rate of workers aged 65 and over was 96.2 per cent, for both men and women. The Committee notes that, in 2019, the unemployment rate for persons aged 15 years and over was 1.3 per cent, while the unemployment rate for men stood at 1.2 per cent and women’s unemployment was 1.5 per cent. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide up-to-date information, including statistical data disaggregated by sex and age, on employment trends, including on employment, unemployment, and visible underemployment in Cambodia.

Education and training policies. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government on the composition and activities of the National Training Board (NTB), which is responsible for monitoring and evaluating Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The Government indicates that twelve standard training kits and eight competency-based training kits were adopted. It adds that ministries and institutions have taken measures to ensure the compliance of technical and vocational education and training institutions with quality standards and have provided a skill-bridging programme to 2,521 school dropouts to enable them to enrol in technical vocational education and training systems. With regard to education and career orientation, the Government refers to various measures implemented with the aim of enhancing skills and human resources development, including career orientation programs which were introduced in eight schools in Phnom Penh and other provinces, and the development of soft skills in technical vocational education and training programs for trainees in formal and informal education. The Committee notes that, in 2019, 651 trainees (30 per cent women) completed the new standard training in four occupations (machining, arc welding, fruit and vegetable processing, and baking), 300 workers in the hotel service applied for recognition of prior learning (RPL), 690 students (58 per cent young women) in 25 schools completed the ILO’s Know About Business (KAB) training modules on entrepreneurship, and 8,327 people (50 per cent women and 80 per cent youth) accessed entrepreneurship and enterprise development training in 2019, out of which 15 participants (73 per cent women) established new businesses. The Committee further notes that measures have been taken to increase the accessibility of education and TVET schemes to disadvantaged groups (including school dropouts, persons living below the poverty line, orphans, persons with disabilities and others). The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures taken to promote education and training for the population in terms of the access of beneficiaries to lasting employment. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to coordinate education and training policies with prospective employment opportunities and their impact, if any.

Youth employment. The Government indicates that the NEA has taken various measures to promote the quality and efficiency of employment service delivery and labour market information. The Government indicates that, under the Decent Employment for Youth (DEY) in Cambodia Phase-II (2020-2023) of the United Nations Joint Program, the NEA has implemented projects, such as “Provide Training of Trainers” on career guidance and career counselling services. As part of post-COVID recovery, the NEA has also conducted a rapid assessment of emerging needs for workers in terms of skills and expanded career counselling, pre-employment training, and services to in-school and out-of-school youth. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the impact of measures taken or contemplated to promote decent, productive, and sustainable employment for young persons, particularly for those belonging to disadvantaged groups (women, persons with disabilities and unskilled young people), and young persons working in agriculture or the informal economy. The Committee also requests the Government to provide up-to-date, detailed information on the impact of these measures on full employment for young persons, in particular out-of-school youth. The Committee further requests the Government to provide statistical data, disaggregated by age, sex, and economic sector, on trends in employment, unemployment, and underemployment for young persons.

Regional and rural development. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government on regional cooperation in vocational training and higher education, and on the Action plan for supporting vocational education and training for students from Cambodia, Laos, and Viet Nam. In particular, it notes that 38 students have been sent to study in Vietnam from 2016 to 2020. With regard to rural development, the Government indicates that, to ensure successful implementation of the NEP at both national and provincial levels, the Inter-Ministerial Committee for Leading, Monitoring, and Evaluating the Implementation of the NEP at the national level has fostered the establishment of Provincial Committees in every province. The Committee notes that, in 2020, capacity-building workshops were conducted for the Provincial Committees in several provinces, such as Kompong Speu, Siern Reap, Kompong Cham, Svay Rieng, and Kratie. It further notes that 229 persons have participated in these workshops to date. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide updated, detailed information on the nature and impact of the activities of the Provincial Committees for leading, monitoring, and evaluating the implementation of the NEP at the provincial level.

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Articles 1 and 3 of the Convention. Formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. Consultations with the social partners. The Committee notes that in order to implement the National Employment Policy 2015–2025 (NEP), the Inter-Ministerial Committee adopted a three-year Action Plan 2017–19, developed in consultation with the social partners. The Government indicates that the secretariat of the NEP has been drafting a report on progress made in implementing the NEP by 2017. Once completed, the report will be reviewed by the social partners. The Government adds that one of the challenges identified with regard to the implementation of the NEP is insufficient reporting of NEP achievements at national and local levels, due to limited capacity among the designated officials and the limited budgetary resources available for the implementation of NEP-related activities. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that there is a need to build capacity to support the successful implementation of the NEP. On the other hand, the Committee notes the new Decent Work Country Programme 2019–23 (DWCP) for Cambodia, which aims to contribute to the achievement of Cambodia’s national development objectives by 2030 and will support implementation of the Rectangular Strategy IV, the National Strategic Development Plan 2019–2023 and the Cambodian Sustainable Development Goals. The DWCP focuses on: promoting employment and sustainable enterprise development; strengthening and expanding social protection, including occupational safety and health; and improving industrial relations and rights at work. It also aims to ensure access to sustainable, decent and productive work for all in the context of an increasingly formalized and inclusive labour market and enhanced social dialogue. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated detailed information on the nature and impact of the measures adopted within the framework of the NEP 2015–2025 and on progress in its implementation, as well as on other active labour market measures adopted with the objective of creating opportunities for decent, productive and sustainable employment. The Government is requested to communicate a copy of the report of the NEP secretariat once it is available. In addition, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on the manner in which groups affected by those measures are involved in the process of their development and implementation. Moreover, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on the steps taken to build the requisite capacity and allocate the budgetary resources necessary to ensure the successful implementation of the NEP. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the development, implementation and impact of specific measures undertaken within the framework of the Decent Work Country Programme 2019–23, including with regard to the participation of the social partners in the development and implementation of such measures.

Article 2. Labour market statistics and information. The Committee notes the brief response provided by the Government to its previous request concerning labour market trends. According to the statistics provided in relation to labour force participation in Cambodia in 2016, the Committee notes significantly lower employment rates among persons over the age of 44. The Committee also notes that women in all age categories experience lower employment rates than men. Moreover, the Committee notes that, according to the 2018 World Bank report and the DWCP 2019–23, women are under-represented at the managerial and technical levels in comparison to their male counterparts, due to lower rates of completion of primary school education. The Committee requests the Government to provide up-to-date information, including statistical data disaggregated by sex and age, on employment trends, including on employment, unemployment and visible underemployment in Cambodia. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on measures taken to promote employment opportunities for older workers and women in all age categories.

Education and training policies. The Government indicates that the National Training Board (NTB) is responsible for monitoring and evaluating the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Policy 2017–2025. The NTB coordination mechanism, chaired by the Ministry of Labour, is mandated to ensure the coordination of education and training policies with the national employment policy, and engages national ministries and institutions, the private sector and the social partners. The Government indicates that the NTB also develops national TVET policies and strategies, tailoring TVET to the needs of the national economy and ensuring effective links to workplaces and training institutes. Noting that the Government has not provided any updated statistical data on the impact of the measures adopted under the TVET Policy 2017–2025, the Committee reiterates its request that the Government provide the data requested, disaggregated by sex, age and type of training. The Committee further requests the Government to provide detailed information on the manner in which the National Training Board coordinates technical education and vocational training policies the with employment policy and on the role of the social partners in the consultation process.

Youth employment. The Committee notes that, in 2017, the Government conducted a skills demand analysis in relation to higher-education graduates in Cambodia, as part of the Higher Education Quality and Capacity Improvement Project (HEQCIP). The findings of the analysis indicate that 52 per cent of students are concentrated in 5 per cent of all bachelor programmes offered by Higher Education Institutions (HEI), in courses such as general management, banking and finance. The Committee notes that new programmes, which more accurately respond to the needs of the labour market, attract only a marginal number of students, making up only 2 per cent of total enrolments. While the majority of HEIs have adopted skills supply adjustment practices, including through involving relevant external stakeholders, training programmes related to sectors that are primary drivers of economic growth continue to be in lower demand. The Committee also notes that the demand for skills on the Cambodian labour market continues to increase at a pace that is 10–20 per cent faster than the supply of skills. According to the 2018 World Bank report previously mentioned, Cambodia is currently facing one of the most significant skills shortages in the region. The Committee notes that the Government has not provided any updated information on the United for Youth Employment in Cambodia programme. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the United for Youth Employment in Cambodia programme, as well as on other employment measures adopted or envisaged to promote decent, productive and lasting employment for young women and men and reduce inequalities in the labour market. The Committee further requests the Government to provide information on measures taken or envisaged to address current skills shortages and ensure that the Cambodian labour force is equipped with skills which meet the current needs of the labour market.

Regional and rural development. In its 2017 comments, the Committee noted that the Cambodia–Laos–Viet Nam Development Triangle Area (CLV–DTA) would remain under review until 2020. The Government reports that the term of the CLV–DTA has been extended to 2030. The Government further indicates that, as decided by the CLV leaders, the development of the Project for Economic Connectivity for Cambodia, Laos, and Viet Nam will be undertaken by the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC). On the other hand, the Government indicates that the Action Plan for Economic Connectivity (APEC) was adopted in March 2018 by Viet Nam and calls for the establishment of a Tripartite Coordination Committee (TCC) mandated to develop a detailed action plan in collaboration with ministries, agencies and local bodies from Cambodia, Laos, and Viet Nam. The key activities of the APEC include strengthening cooperation in vocational training and higher education, with a focus on professions committed to mobility in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), exchange of labour market information between the CLV countries, encouraging investment in education and training, and improving teacher qualifications. The Government indicates that, under the CLV framework, it is developing a project aimed at supporting vocational education and training for students from Cambodia, Laos, and Viet Nam to study in Viet Nam. It adds that Cambodian teachers and students are being trained in Viet Nam through a cooperation between a TVET institution in Ratanakiri and Viet Nam’s Vocational and Technical Schools. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated, detailed information on the nature and impact of the activities of the Tripartite Coordination Committee and the Joint Coordination Committee, as well as on the impact of measures taken under the APEC, particularly with regard to regional cooperation in vocational training and higher education. The Committee further requests the Government to provide information on the progress and impact of the project aimed at supporting vocational education and training for students from Cambodia, Laos, and Viet Nam to study in Viet Nam.

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Articles 1 and 3 of the Convention. Formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. Consultations with the social partners. In its previous comments, the Committee invited the Government to provide information on the progress made with regard to the development and implementation of a national employment policy. The Committee notes with interest the Government’s indication that the National Employment Policy (NEP) 2015–25 was adopted by the Council of Ministers in September 2015 and launched in October 2015. The Government adds that the NEP, developed in consultation with the social partners, aims to increase decent and productive employment opportunities; enhance skills and human resource development; and enhance labour market governance. Moreover, in order to implement the NEP, measures are being implemented through an inter-ministerial committee. Provincial and municipal committees will also be established to contribute to the implementation of the NEP. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated information on the impact of the measures adopted within the framework of the NEP 2015–25, as well as of other active labour market measures to create decent, productive and sustainable employment. It also requests the Government to provide additional detailed information on the involvement of the social partners in the implementation of the NEP and other employment measures, as well as on the involvement of representatives of the persons or groups affected by the measures to be taken (Article 3).

Article 2. Labour market statistics and information. The Committee notes that the Government has not provided any statistical information in its report. It therefore once again refers to its 2010 General Survey concerning employment instruments, paragraph 70, in which it stressed the importance of compiling and analysing statistical data and trends as a basis for developing and implementing evidence-based employment policy measures. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to provide updated statistical information, disaggregated by age and sex, on labour market and employment trends, including in relation to employment, unemployment and underemployment.

Education and training policies. The Committee notes the information provided on apprenticeship programmes in operation during the 2013–16 period, in which 53,114 apprentices were placed in a total of 1,086 enterprises. The Government indicates that employers with more than 60 workers are required to hire apprentices under the provisions of the Labour Law. Enterprises may nevertheless be exempted from participating in the apprenticeship programmes by, for example, paying an apprenticeship tax. The Committee further notes that, in order to better respond to labour market needs and adequately develop and upgrade workers’ labour market skills, the Government has launched a national Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Policy 2017–25. The TVET Policy focuses on improving the quality of TVET services to: better meet national and international market demands; increase equitable access to TVET for employment generation; promote public–private partnerships and aggregate resources from stakeholders to support sustainable development of a TVET system; and improve governance of the system. The Committee further notes that, in 2017, 113 training institutions were registered under the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training. During the 2012–16 period, 254,895 students, 136,544 of whom were women, received formal and informal training. The Committee requests the Government to provide information, including statistical data disaggregated by sex, age and type of training, on the impact of the measures adopted under the TVET Policy 2017–25. It also requests the Government to provide information on the coordination of education and training policies with employment policy.

Youth employment. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the promotion of youth employment is one of the priorities of the NEP. In its report, the Government also highlights the launch of a joint programme developed by the Government, in collaboration with the ILO and other UN agencies, “United for Youth Employment in Cambodia”, with the support of the Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation. The programme was launched in August 2017 to promote youth employment and reduce inequalities in the country. Many young people in Cambodia are forced into jobs where informality and poverty prevail. The programme thus aims to facilitate young women and men’s access to the labour market while by reducing inequalities, particularly for those belonging to disadvantaged groups, and to ensure that young people are better equipped to access employment by meeting labour market needs. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the United for Youth Employment in Cambodia programme, as well as other employment measures adopted to promote decent, productive and lasting employment for young women and men and reduce inequalities in the labour market.

Regional development and rural development. The Committee once again refers to its previous comments in which it noted that the Cambodia–Laos–Viet Nam Development Triangle Area (CLV–DTA) was under review until 2020. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures taken to reduce regional disparities so as to attain a better balance in the national labour market.

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Articles 1 and 3 of the Convention. Formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. Consultation with the social partners. The Committee notes the Government’s reports received in October 2013 and September 2014 in reply to the 2011 observation. The Government indicates its intention to establish a series of political platforms in the field of labour and employment, among which is the formulation of a national employment policy to accommodate socio-economic advancement. The Committee notes in this regard that key policy priorities and actions of the National Strategic Development Plan 2014–18 include developing and implementing a national employment policy to closely align the employment sector to the needs of socio-economic development. The Committee therefore invites the Government to provide information on the progress made with regard to the formulation and implementation of the national employment policy, and information on the consultations held with the social partners in this regard.

Article 2. Labour market statistics and information. The Committee notes the goals set out by the Department of Labour Market Information which include, inter alia, providing technical assistance to officials responsible for labour statistics and labour market information at the provincial departments of labour and vocational training. The Committee also notes the report on the Cambodia Labour Force and Child Labour Force Survey 2012, published in November 2013, which was produced by staff at the National Institute of Statistics with the assistance of the ILO. It notes that Cambodia’s labour force participation rate was estimated at 68.8 per cent in 2012 (75.8 per cent for men and 62.4 per cent for women). The previous labour force surveys dated back to 2000 and 2001. The Committee refers to its 2010 General Survey concerning employment instruments, paragraph 70, in which it stressed the importance of compiling and analysing statistical data and trends as a basis for deciding measures of employment policy. The Committee invites the Government to provide updated statistical information, disaggregated by age and sex, on the country’s labour market and employment trends. Please also indicate the manner in which labour market data is collected and used to determine and review employment policy measures.

Education and training policies. The Committee notes the various training programmes offered and the number of beneficiaries from 2008 to 2013. It also notes that the Cambodia Qualification Framework (CQF) was approved by the Government in April 2014. The Government indicates that the Department of Labour Market Information cooperates with enterprises in the implementation of apprenticeship programmes. It adds that a total of 50,539 persons have completed apprenticeships in the 2004–12 period, out of which 46,229 were women. Information was also provided on an education and training policy intended for members of vulnerable groups, such as person with disabilities, women and the poorest people in rural areas. The Committee notes that the Department of Labour Market Information has planned to increase efforts to provide the technical skills which match the labour market needs of members of poorer communities, especially members of ethnic groups. The Committee invites the Government to provide information on the measures taken to improve education and training programmes, including apprenticeship programmes, and coordinate education and training policies with employment opportunities.

Youth employment. The Committee notes that the National Policy on Youth Development, adopted in 2011, aims to, inter alia, provide youth with the opportunity to obtain quality and equitable access to education and vocational training. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures adopted in relation to the promotion of productive employment of young persons.

Regional development and rural development. The Committee refers to its previous comments and notes that the Cambodia–Laos–Viet Nam Development Triangle Area (CLV–DTA) is being reviewed for a period extending until 2020. The Committee invites the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures taken to reduce regional disparities so as to attain a better balance in the labour market.

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The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its 2011 observation.

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Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Coordination of social and economic policy with poverty reduction. In its report received in August 2011, the Government referred to the implementation of the Rectangular Strategy Plan, Phase II 2009–13. The Committee noted that the Government’s six priorities in setting up the aforementioned action plan are as follows: (1) employment creation; (2) improving working conditions; (3) enforcement of the rule of law in social security matters; (4) building and development of technical and vocational skills; (5) expansion and strengthening of gender mainstreaming in the labour market; and (6) strengthening cooperation between institutions, work efficiency and accountability. The Committee also noted that the Government has set up a policy on labour migration. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved and the difficulties encountered in attaining the employment policy objectives in the Rectangular Strategy Plan, Phase II 2009–13. In addition, the Committee asks the Government to provide information on how it intends to meet, in the context of its new labour migration policy, the employment needs of migrant Cambodian workers.

Employment trends. The Committee noted in its previous observation that data concerning labour market and employment trends are compiled by the Department of Labour Market Information operating under the auspices of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training. Due to a lack of resources and reorientation of officials responsible for the data collection to other positions, the Government was unable to submit new relevant information on employment trends. The Committee hopes that the Government will supply detailed statistical information in its next report on the nature and extent of the country’s labour market and employment trends. It also requests the Government to indicate the manner in which labour market data is collected and used to determine and review employment policy measures.

ILO technical assistance. The Government indicated in its August 2011 report that the “Better Factories Cambodia” programme has led to improved compliance by Cambodian export garment factories of national and international labour standards. This has contributed to Cambodia’s national social and economic growth as export garment factories continue to win over and retain key international buyers who are weary of poor labour standards. The Committee invites the Government to include in its next report updated information on the implementation and results of the “Better Factories Cambodia” programme in terms of employment creation.

Regional development and rural employment. The Committee previously noted that the Cambodia–Laos–Viet Nam Development Triangle Area (CLV–DTA) is a multilateral agreement that focuses on economic, political and social objectives in the subregion. Among the social objectives mentioned in the report, the Government referred to several labour-related objectives, such as hunger eradication and poverty reduction. The Committee requests the Government to provide additional information on how the measures taken under the CLV–DTA have promoted the objective of full and productive employment. Please also indicate how the objectives of overcoming poverty, eradicating hunger, reducing social inequalities and ensuring sustainable development have been achieved. The Committee invites the Government to continue to include information on the measures taken to reduce regional disparities so as to attain a better balance in the labour market.

Youth employment. The Committee previously requested information on the specific measures adopted by the Government aimed at generating employment opportunities for youth. The Committee once again invites the Government to provide in its next report detailed information on the adoption of a youth policy action plan and the results achieved to promote productive employment of young persons.

Educational and training policies. The Committee previously requested that the Government continue to provide information on the effects of educational and training measures adopted by the National Training Board. The Committee once again invites the Government to provide in its next report detailed information on the measures taken to improve qualification standards and coordinate education and training policies with employment opportunities.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners. The Committee previously requested information as to how the Government involves representatives of employers and workers in the formulation and implementation of employment policies. The Committee once again invites the Government to address this essential issue in its next report by demonstrating how representatives of employers and workers are consulted at the policy planning and implementation stages so that their experience and views are taken into account.

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Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Coordination of social and economic policy with poverty reduction. The Committee notes the Government’s report received in August 2011 containing some replies to the points raised in the 2010 observation. In its report, the Government refers to the implementation of the Rectangular Strategy Plan, Phase II 2009–13. The Committee notes that the Government’s six priorities in setting up the aforementioned action plan are as follows: (1) employment creation; (2) improving working conditions; (3) enforcement of the rule of law in social security matters; (4) building and development of technical and vocational skills; (5) expansion and strengthening of gender mainstreaming in the labour market; and (6) strengthening cooperation between institutions, work efficiency and accountability. The Committee also notes that the Government has set up a policy on labour migration. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved and the difficulties encountered in attaining the employment policy objectives in the Rectangular Strategy Plan, Phase II 2009–13. In addition, the Committee asks the Government to provide information on how it intends to meet, in the context of its new labour migration policy, the employment needs of migrant Cambodian workers.

Employment trends. The Committee notes that data concerning labour market and employment trends is compiled by the Department of Labour Market Information operating under auspices of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training. Due to a lack of resources, reorientation of officials responsible for the data collection to other positions, the Government was unable to submit any new relevant information on employment trends. The Committee hopes that the Government will supply detailed statistical information in its next report on the nature and extent of the country’s labour market and employment trends. It also requests the Government to indicate the manner in which labour market data is collected and used to determine and review employment policy measures.

ILO technical assistance. The Government indicates that the “Better Factories Cambodia” programme has led to improved compliance by Cambodian export garment factories of national and international labour standards. This has contributed to Cambodia’s national social and economic growth as export garment factories continue to win-over and retain key international buyers who are weary of poor labour standards. The Committee would appreciate continuing to receive the information on the implementation and results of the Better Factories programme in terms of employment generation.

Regional development and rural employment. The Committee notes that the Cambodia–Laos–Viet Nam Development Triangle Area (CLV–DTA) is a multilateral agreement that focuses on economic, political and social objectives in the subregion. Among the social objectives mentioned in the report, the Government refers to several labour related objectives, such as hunger eradication and poverty reduction. The Committee requests the Government to provide additional information on how the measures taken under the CLV–DTA have promoted the objective of full and productive employment. Please also indicate how the objectives of overcoming poverty, eradicating hunger, reducing social inequalities and ensuring sustainable development have been achieved. The Committee invites the Government to continue to include information on the measures taken to reduce regional disparities so as to attain a better balance in the labour market.

Youth employment. The Committee observes that its previous requests regarding information on the specific measures adopted by the Government aimed at generating employment opportunities for the youth was left unanswered in the Government’s report. The Committee reiterates its request and invites the Government to provide in its next report detailed information on the adoption of a youth policy action plan and the results achieved to promote productive employment of young persons.

Educational and training policies. The Committee observes that its previous requests that the Government continue providing information on the effects of educational and training measures adopted by the National Training Board was left unanswered in the Government’s report. The Committee reiterates its previous request and invites the Government to provide in its next report detailed information on the measures taken to improve qualification standards and coordinate education and training policies with employment opportunities.

Article 3. Participation of social partners. The Committee observes that its previous requests regarding information as to how the Government involves representatives of employers and workers in the formulation and implementation of employment policies was left unanswered in the Government’s report. The Committee reiterates its previous request and invites the Government to address this essential issue in its next report by demonstrating how representatives of employers and workers are consulted at the policy planning and implementation stages so that their experience and views are taken into account.

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The Committee notes the Government’s report received in May 2010 containing some replies to the points raised in the 2009 observation. The Committee has also benefited from the information provided by the ILO specialists in the Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific.

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Coordination of social and economic policy with poverty reduction. In its report, the Government refers to the implementation of the National Strategic Development Plan, the Rectangular Strategy Plan, and the Vocational Training’s Strategic Plan. The Committee notes that the Government’s new policies under the Tourism Law include plans to establish a tourism-focused research institute, university, and vocational school to promote industry-specific skills. The Government details other measures adopted to respond to the global crisis, including provision of short-term vocational training and micro-credit service to newly unemployed workers and availability of low interest, short-term credit to farmers in small and medium-sized enterprises. The Government also describes the 2008–11 implementation of the Emergency Food Project financed by the Asian Development Bank, which seeks to build a better response system to food crises, provide subsidies for seeds and fertilizers, and distribute free food to the most vulnerable groups in 200 communes and seven provinces. The Committee notes that the Government also endorses a policy of labour migration to neighbouring countries as a way of reducing poverty and unemployment. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the achievements of the employment objectives defined in the Rectangular Strategy and other development plans designed to promote full, productive, and lasting employment opportunities to the unemployed and other categories of workers affected by the crisis. The Committee also invites the Government to report on the action taken within the framework of an active employment policy to prevent abuse in the recruitment of Cambodians working abroad (see Part X of the Employment Policy (Supplementary Provisions) Recommendation, 1984 (No. 169)).

Employment trends. The Committee notes that according to the Ministry of Planning’s 2007 Labour Force Report, Cambodia’s labour force participation rate in 2007 remained at 75 per cent and its unemployment rate continued to be low at 1 per cent. The informal economy is said to provide up to 90 per cent of all employment due to inadequate opportunities and wages in the formal sector. The Committee notes that under the global economic crisis, the economy has experienced a significant drop from the average growth rate exceeding 10 per cent in the years between 2004 and 2007 to loss of 2 per cent in 2009, although the growth rate in 2010 has recovered to a rate between 4 and 5 per cent. The Committee invites the Government to provide in its next report updated information on the labour market and employment trends and communicate any difficulties experienced in collecting relevant data and using such data to implement policies in accordance with the Convention.

ILO technical assistance. The Government indicates improvements in labour law compliance since the Better Factories in Cambodia Programme despite the pressure engendered by the economic crisis. Minimum wage compliance rate increased by 12 per cent, while the compliance rates regarding requirements to provide protective equipment and install needle guards on sewing machines have also increased by 12 per cent and 7 per cent, respectively. Noting that the garment industry has been particularly affected by the crisis and that its workers are among the most vulnerable, the Committee requests the Government to continue providing information on the progress in implementing the Better Factories initiatives in the country and its impact on fostering productive employment.

Regional development and rural employment. The Committee notes the Government’s efforts to address the regional disparity in development by promoting the tourism industry, planning to establish Special Economic Zones in locations other than Phnom Penh, and cooperating with regional partners like Japan to develop the triangle area of Cambodia–Laos–Viet Nam. The Committee also notes that the ILO has assisted the Government since 1992 to promote labour-based appropriate technology (LBAT) to build essential rural infrastructure and that this strategy is currently being considered as a part of the Government’s comprehensive strategy to improve social safety through productive and employment-intensive public works. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the effects of the abovementioned measures on promoting employment opportunities in the rural areas, including data and analysis examining the progress made towards achieving equitable regional development. In addition, the Committee invites the Government to detail the specific employment objectives of the Triangle Development Area in its next report.

Youth employment. In its 2009 observation, the Committee expressed its concern regarding the estimated rate of 275,000 young people annually entering the labour market. The Committee understands that the Government is finalizing a youth policy with an action plan partly addressing the employment issue. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on specific measures adopted to generate employment opportunities for the youth.

Educational and training policies. The Committee notes the establishment of the National Training Board, headed by the Deputy Prime Minister and composed of representatives from the private sector, training institutions, and governmental ministries. The Board seeks to improve the existing educational and vocational institutions by setting national standards and certificates in cooperation with foreign experts, as well as creating a National Employment Agency and job centres. The Government indicates that there are 45 public and 209 private/NGO educational and vocational institutions and that the number of students graduating from these programmes has increased by 22.5 per cent in the years between 2006 and 2008. The Committee requests the Government to continue providing information on the effects of such educational and training measures on increasing employment opportunities.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners. The Government continues to indicate that the Labour Advisory Committee has not been consulted in the development and implementation of employment policies. The Committee emphasizes that social dialogue is essential in normal times and that it becomes even more so in times of crisis. The employment instruments require member States to promote and engage in genuine tripartite consultations (General Survey of 2010 concerning employment instruments, paragraph 794). The Committee invites the Government to intensify its efforts to take into account the stakeholders’ perspectives in formulating and implementing employment policies. The Committee asks the Government to address this essential issue in its next report by demonstrating how the representatives of employers and workers are consulted at the policy planning and implementation stages so that their experience and views are taken into account.

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The Committee notes the information provided in the Government’s report received in November 2008, and the communication of the Free Trade Union of Workers of the Kingdom of Cambodia (FTUWKC) received in August 2008. The FTUWKC indicates that Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in Asia, where life expectancy is 56 years and where 80 per cent of the population live on less that US$2 a day. The FTUWKC also indicates that the garment industry, which has developed rapidly over the last ten years, now accounts for 90 per cent of Cambodia’s exports and employs around 355,000 people, mainly young women from the poor rural communities. The Committee notes the concerns expressed by the FTUWKC that core labour standards are not being complied with in many factories, as workers are being forced to work long hours, night shifts and overtime, and do not benefit from paid, sick, or maternity leave.

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Coordination of employment policy with poverty reduction. The Committee notes that the Government has implemented the National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP), with the aim of reducing poverty and achieving the Cambodian Millennium Development Goals. In this regard, the Government has operated the long-term “Rectangular Strategy” in order to deliver on the NSDP. The Committee notes that the Rectangle III programme specifies policies relating to private sector development and employment. In particular, it specifies a systematic policy aimed at: (i) creating jobs, particularly for young persons entering the labour market, and for all Cambodian workers through various measures which encourage domestic investment and attract foreign direct investment in priority sectors, including agriculture, agro-industry, labour-intensive industries and tourism; (ii) establishing skills training networks for the poor; and (iii) developing a labour statistics system. The Committee hopes that the Government will be in a position to indicate in its next report whether specific difficulties have been encountered in achieving the objectives defined in the Rectangular Strategy on employment policies, and the extent to which these difficulties have been overcome. The Committee also invites the Government to provide indications on the progress achieved in the collection of labour market data and the manner in which such data is used in the formulation and implementation of the employment policy.

ILO technical assistance. The Committee notes that the 21st synthesis report for “Better Factories Cambodia” indicates that the programme has contributed to an improvement in the working conditions and standard of living of more than 270,000 workers, especially young women from rural areas. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the progress of the “Better Factories Cambodia” programme and on the impact it has had on the creation of productive employment.

Rural employment. The Committee notes that the Government has implemented diversification measures in different regions across the country. In Preah Vihear, the mountain areas are being converted into tourist destinations; in Svay Rieng, factories are now operating in former poor rural areas; and factories are being established in Kampong Chhnang. The Committee requests the Government to provide information in its next report on the measures it has taken to promote employment opportunities in rural areas, including data on how such measures have contributed to ensuring balanced regional development.

Youth employment. The Committee notes from the ILO’s Policy Brief on Youth Employment in Cambodia (2007) that the total number of young people is expected to grow from 3.2 million in 2005 to 3.6 million in 2011. Young persons will still have a 24 per cent share of the total population. In this regard, there is concern over how the labour market will absorb an estimated 275,000 young jobseekers expected for each year over the next five years. The Committee notes that the NSDP includes provision for the implementation of a systematic policy to create more jobs, especially for young people entering the labour market, through various measures such as the establishment of skills training networks to assist young people and new graduates in response to labour market needs. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken to ensure productive employment opportunities for young persons.

Labour market and training policies. The Committee notes that, in 2007, 38 educational and vocational institutions were in operation, under the overall responsibility of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training. In this year, 69,471 students attended training courses in those institutions, of whom 46,384 persons from 17 provinces, received certificates. The Government also indicates that, with the assistance of the Governments of India and Japan, entrepreneur training centres were established in order to promote a culture of entrepreneurship in the country. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the results achieved by the measures taken by the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training to coordinate education and training policies with prospective employment opportunities and to promote an entrepreneurship culture.

Business development. The Committee notes that the Government has adopted a comprehensive SME Development Framework and prepared an SME Development Programme. Measures implemented under this programme are intended to create a favourable business environment for SMEs and micro-enterprises, to enable their better access to medium- and long-term finance, and to establish specific systems to support women in business, including through facilitating women’s access to SME development initiatives and services. The Committee notes with interest the measures taken to stimulate small and micro-enterprises and asks the Government to provide information in its next report on the effects of these initiatives on the creation of productive employment. It also asks the Government to provide information on any measures taken to involve social partners so as to ensure that the concerns of small businesses are taken into account in the formulation of employment policies and measures. In this regard, the Government may deem it useful to consult the provisions of the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189).

Article 3. Participation of social partners. The Government indicates in its report that the Labour Advisory Committee has not been consulted in the development and review of employment policies and programmes. The Committee recalls that, under the Convention, governments are required to ensure that the opinions of workers’ and employers’ organizations, as well as workers in the rural sector and the informal economy, are to be consulted “with a view to taking fully into account their experiences and views”. The Committee asks the Government to provide concrete examples on the manner in which the views of employers, workers and other affected groups are sufficiently taken into account in the development, implementation and review of employment policies and programmes.

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1. The Committee notes with regret that for the seventh consecutive year the Government’s report has not been received. It urges the Government to supply a report for examination by the Committee at its next session.

2. In its 2005 observation, the Committee noted the “Better Factories Cambodia” programme, established in 2001, which is managed by the ILO and supported by the Government, the Garment Manufacturers’ Association in Cambodia (GMAC) and trade unions (see http://www.betterfactories.org/ILO/). The programme is funded by the Governments of Cambodia, France and the United States, as well as by GMAC and international buyers. “Better Factories Cambodia” is creating services to help the industry improve working conditions, while at the same time improving quality and productivity. It offers to the industry a progressive range of training opportunities and resources. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the outcome of this programme and how it contributed to employment creation.

3. In previous reports received until 2000, the Government indicated that employment generation was the most important strategy for poverty reduction. The Committee had previously noted that greater diversification of the economy was needed to achieve poverty reduction and employment creation. It also asks the Government to provide information on the progress made in diversifying the economy, particularly concerning agricultural and rural development. It also requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to ensure that employment, as a key element of poverty reduction, is central to macroeconomic and social policies. It would also be grateful to be able to examine information on the results achieved in improving the supply of vocational and technical training and promoting an enterprise culture (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention and the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189)).

4. The Committee noted previously that the country’s statistics were not very reliable and that the ILO had provided support to the relevant ministry to develop labour market indicators. In this regard, the Committee recalls the importance of establishing a system for the compilation of labour market data and asks the Government to inform it on any progress made in this field and to provide information on the employment policy measures adopted following the establishment of new information systems.

5. Article 3. Participation of the social partners. The Committee noted previously that a tripartite Labour Advisory Committee had been formed in 1999. Please supply information on the activities of the Labour Advisory Committee, including information on whether it is consulted on the development and review of employment policies and programmes. It further requests the Government to supply information on how the views of the persons affected, such as rural and informal sector workers, are taken into account.

6. Finally, the Committee emphasizes the fact that the preparation of a detailed report, including the indications requested in this observation, will provide the Government and the social partners with an opportunity to evaluate the achievement of the objectives of full and productive employment set out in the Convention. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the technical assistance offered by the Office, which may assist it to comply with its reporting obligations and in the implementation of an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention.

[The Government is asked to reply in detail to the present comments in 2008.]

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1. The Committee notes with regret that for the sixth consecutive year the Government’s report has not been received. It urges the Government to supply a report for examination by the Committee at its next session.

2. In its 2005 observation, the Committee noted the Better Factories Cambodia programme, established in 2001, which is managed by the ILO and supported by the Government, the Garment Manufacturers’ Association in Cambodia (GMAC) and trade unions (see http://www.betterfactories.org/ILO/). The programme is funded by the Governments of Cambodia, France and the United States, as well as by GMAC and international buyers. Better Factories Cambodia is creating services to help the industry improve working conditions, while at the same time improving quality and productivity. It offers to the industry a progressive range of training opportunities and resources. The Committee would appreciate receiving further information on the outcome of this programme and how it contributes to employment creation.

3. In previous reports received until 2000, the Government indicated that employment generation was the most important strategy for poverty reduction. The Committee had previously noted that greater diversification of the economy was needed to achieve poverty reduction and employment creation. It would thus appreciate receiving further information on the progress made in diversifying the economy, particularly concerning agricultural and rural development. It also requests the Government to provide information in its next report on the measures taken to ensure that employment, as a key element of poverty reduction, is central to macroeconomic and social policies. It would also be grateful to be able to examine information on the results achieved in improving the supply of vocational and technical training and promoting an enterprise culture (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention and the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189)).

4. The Committee noted previously that the country’s statistics were not very reliable and that the ILO had provided support to the relevant ministry to develop labour market indicators. In this regard, the Committee recalls the importance of establishing a system for the compilation of labour market data and asks the Government to inform it on any progress made in this field and to provide information in its next report on the employment policy measures adopted following the establishment of new information systems.

5. Participation of the social partners. The Committee noted previously that a tripartite Labour Advisory Committee had been formed in 1999. Please supply information on the activities of the Labour Advisory Committee, including information on whether it is consulted on the development and review of employment policies and programmes. Please also supply information on how the views of the persons affected, such as rural and informal sector workers, are taken into account (Article 3).

6. Finally, the Committee emphasizes the fact that the preparation of a detailed report, including the indications requested in this observation, will provide the Government and the social partners with an opportunity to evaluate the achievement of the objectives of full and productive employment set out in the Convention. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the technical assistance offered by the Office, which may assist it to comply with its reporting obligations and in the implementation of an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention.

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1. The Committee notes with regret that for the fifth consecutive year the Government’s report has not been received. It expresses the hope that the Government will be able to supply a report for examination by the Committee at its next session.

2. The Committee notes the Better Factories Cambodia programme established in 2001, which is managed by the ILO and supported by the Government, the Garment Manufacturers’ Association in Cambodia (GMAC) and trade unions (see http://www.betterfactories.org/ILO/). The programme is funded by the Governments of the United States, France and Cambodia, as well as by GMAC and international buyers. Better Factories Cambodia is creating services to help the industry improve working conditions, while at the same time improving quality and productivity. It offers to the industry a progressive range of training opportunities and resources. The Committee would appreciate receiving further information on the outcome of this programme and how it contributes to employment creation.

3. In previous reports received until 2000, the Government had indicated that employment generation was the most important strategy for poverty reduction. The Committee had previously noted that greater diversification of the economy was needed to achieve poverty reduction and employment creation. It would thus appreciate receiving further information on progress made to diversify the economy, particularly concerning agricultural and rural development. It also requests the Government to provide information in its next report on the measures taken to ensure that employment, as a key element of poverty reduction, is central to macroeconomic and social policies. It would also be important to be able to examine information on the results achieved in improving the supply of vocational and technical training and promoting an enterprise culture (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention and the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189)).

4. The Committee had previously noted that the country’s statistics were not very reliable and that the ILO had provided support to the relevant ministry to develop labour market indicators. In this regard, the Committee recalls the importance of establishing a system for the compilation of labour market data and asks the Government to inform it on any progress made in this field and to provide in its next report information on the employment policy measures adopted following the establishment of new information systems.

5. Participation of the social partners. The Committee had previously noted that a tripartite Labour Advisory Committee was formed in 1999. Please supply information on the activities of the Labour Advisory Committee, including information on whether it is consulted on the development and review of employment policies and programmes. Please also supply information on how the views of the persons affected, such as rural and informal sector workers, are taken into account (Article 3).

6. Finally, the Committee emphasizes the fact that the preparation of a detailed report, including the indications requested in this observation, will provide the Government and the social partners with an opportunity to evaluate the achievement of the objectives of full and productive employment of the Convention. The Committee draws the Government’s attention to the technical assistance offered by the Office, which may assist it to comply with the reporting obligations and for the implementation of an active employment policy in the sense of the Convention.

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The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its 2000 direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s brief report, in which it states that it is making efforts to expand the garment industry (where it aims to apply all core international labour standards), palm oil farms, and tourism in Siem Reap province. It notes from other sources that the Government has developed several other policies and programmes to promote employment. The Committee invites the Government to seek technical assistance when preparing its next report, in order to better aid the Committee in understanding the Government’s progress in implementing the Convention.

Article 1 of the Convention. The Committee notes from the Country Brief, prepared by the Office for the World Employment Report, that GDP grew by 5 per cent in 1999; however, fundamental problems persist. Poverty remains widespread; the economy is not sufficiently diversified; and there is low domestic resource mobilization and an almost exclusive reliance on official aid for public investment programmes. Furthermore, human resource development is stagnating due to high repetition and dropout rates of school-age children.

Labour force participation rates for 1999 were 66.3 per cent for men and 65.9 per cent for women, with much higher rates in rural areas. The majority of workers are self-employed or unpaid family workers (predominately women). Unemployment rates for 1999 were 0.5 per cent for men and 0.6 per cent for women, with slightly higher rates in rural areas. Underemployment rates for 1999 were estimated at 8.6 per cent for men and 14.7 per cent for women. The labour force is growing at about three per cent per year.

Women are concentrated in low and unskilled employment, particularly in the informal sector. Women comprised only 11 per cent of total paid workers, but 64 per cent of unpaid workers, mainly in agriculture. Employment of women in the garment industry is reversing this trend to some extent, but the gender gap in education and training indicates that the gap in remuneration is likely to continue.

The Government has declared employment generation the most important strategy for poverty reduction in its Five-Year Development Plan for 1996-2000, and has made some progress, particularly in improving administration. The Committee notes that the UNDP/ILO project on vocational training for poverty alleviation has been completed and tripartite reviews have been carried out. Please provide further information on the follow-up taken, and on any other projects undertaken to develop training to promote employment. The Committee also notes that greater diversification of the economy is needed. The Committee would appreciate receiving further information on progress made to diversify the economy, particularly concerning agricultural and rural development. The Committee points out that ILO technical assistance is available to the Government.

The Committee notes that specific programmes have been undertaken by the Government, including mainstreaming the use of labour-based infrastructure development methods for rural development, and participating in the ILO/Japan project on employment promotion for people with disabilities. Please provide further information on the outcome of these programmes. Please also provide information on how the Ministry of Social Affairs, Labour, Vocational Training, and Youth Rehabilitation (MOSALVYR) coordinates its policies and programmes with the Ministry of Planning, and on how MOSALVYR promotes employment as part of the annual Consultative Group under the auspices of the World Bank.

Lastly, the Committee notes that the public employment service is largely underdeveloped and poorly utilized. It encourages the Government to seek ILO technical assistance to modernize the employment service and to integrate active labour market programmes in its functions.

Article 2. The Committee notes from the Country Brief that statistics are not very reliable, due to limited access to certain areas of the country for security reasons, and to the use of classifications that do not always conform to ILO standard classifications for labour statistics. ILO/EASMAT reviewed the labour statistics system in Cambodia in 1995, and proposed a major programme to develop the system of labour statistics. The ILO also provided support to MOSALVYR to develop labour market indicators. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on whether progress is being made in implementing the findings of these studies and whether further technical assistance from ILO/EASMAT is needed. Please also provide information more generally on how policies and programmes are kept under review within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy.

Article 3. The Committee notes that a tripartite Labour Advisory Committee was formed in 1999, comprised of workers’ and employers’ organizations, as well as government representatives. Please supply further information on the mandate of the Labour Advisory Committee, including whether it is consulted on the development and review of policies and programmes. Please also supply information on how the views of other persons affected, such as rural and informal sector workers, are taken into account.

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The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its 2000 direct request which read as follows:

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s brief report, in which it states that it is making efforts to expand the garment industry (where it aims to apply all core international labour standards), palm oil farms, and tourism in Siem Reap province. It notes from other sources that the Government has developed several other policies and programmes to promote employment. The Committee invites the Government to seek technical assistance when preparing its next report, in order to better aid the Committee in understanding the Government’s progress in implementing the Convention.

Article 1 of the Convention. The Committee notes from the Country Brief, prepared by the Office for the World Employment Report, that GDP grew by 5 per cent in 1999; however, fundamental problems persist. Poverty remains widespread; the economy is not sufficiently diversified; and there is low domestic resource mobilization and an almost exclusive reliance on official aid for public investment programmes. Furthermore, human resource development is stagnating due to high repetition and dropout rates of school-age children.

Labour force participation rates for 1999 were 66.3 per cent for men and 65.9 per cent for women, with much higher rates in rural areas. The majority of workers are self-employed or unpaid family workers (predominately women). Unemployment rates for 1999 were 0.5 per cent for men and 0.6 per cent for women, with slightly higher rates in rural areas. Underemployment rates for 1999 were estimated at 8.6 per cent for men and 14.7 per cent for women. The labour force is growing at about 3 per cent per year.

Women are concentrated in low and unskilled employment, particularly in the informal sector. Women comprised only 11 per cent of total paid workers, but 64 per cent of unpaid workers, mainly in agriculture. Employment of women in the garment industry is reversing this trend to some extent, but the gender gap in education and training indicates that the gap in remuneration is likely to continue.

The Government has declared employment generation the most important strategy for poverty reduction in its Five-Year Development Plan for 1996-2000, and has made some progress, particularly in improving administration. The Committee notes that the UNDP/ILO project on vocational training for poverty alleviation has been completed and tripartite reviews have been carried out. Please provide further information on the follow-up taken, and on any other projects undertaken to develop training to promote employment. The Committee also notes that greater diversification of the economy is needed. The Committee would appreciate receiving further information on progress made to diversify the economy, particularly concerning agricultural and rural development. The Committee points out that ILO technical assistance is available to the Government.

The Committee notes that specific programmes have been undertaken by the Government, including mainstreaming the use of labour-based infrastructure development methods for rural development, and participating in the ILO/Japan project on employment promotion for people with disabilities. Please provide further information on the outcome of these programmes. Please also provide information on how the Ministry of Social Affairs, Labour, Vocational Training, and Youth Rehabilitation (MOSALVYR) coordinates its policies and programmes with the Ministry of Planning, and on how MOSALVYR promotes employment as part of the annual Consultative Group under the auspices of the World Bank.

Lastly, the Committee notes that the public employment service is largely underdeveloped and poorly utilized. It encourages the Government to seek ILO technical assistance to modernize the employment service and to integrate active labour market programmes in its functions.

Article 2. The Committee notes from the Country Brief that statistics are not very reliable, due to limited access to certain areas of the country for security reasons, and to the use of classifications that do not always conform to ILO standard classifications for labour statistics. ILO/EASMAT reviewed the labour statistics system in Cambodia in 1995, and proposed a major programme to develop the system of labour statistics. The ILO also provided support to MOSALVYR to develop labour market indicators. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on whether progress is being made in implementing the findings of these studies and whether further technical assistance from ILO/EASMAT is needed. Please also provide information more generally on how policies and programmes are kept under review within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy.

Article 3. The Committee notes that a tripartite Labour Advisory Committee was formed in 1999, comprised of workers’ and employers’ organizations, as well as government representatives. Please supply further information on the mandate of the Labour Advisory Committee, including whether it is consulted on the development and review of policies and programmes. Please also supply information on how the views of other persons affected, such as rural and informal sector workers, are taken into account.

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The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its 2000 direct request which read as follows:

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s brief report, in which it states that it is making efforts to expand the garment industry (where it aims to apply all core international labour standards), palm oil farms, and tourism in Siem Reap province. It notes from other sources that the Government has developed several other policies and programmes to promote employment. The Committee invites the Government to seek technical assistance when preparing its next report, in order to better aid the Committee in understanding the Government’s progress in implementing the Convention.

Article 1 of the Convention.  The Committee notes from the Country Brief, prepared by the Office for the World Employment Report, that GDP grew by 5 per cent in 1999; however, fundamental problems persist. Poverty remains widespread; the economy is not sufficiently diversified; and there is low domestic resource mobilization and an almost exclusive reliance on official aid for public investment programmes. Furthermore, human resource development is stagnating due to high repetition and dropout rates of school-age children.

Labour force participation rates for 1999 were 66.3 per cent for men and 65.9 per cent for women, with much higher rates in rural areas. The majority of workers are self-employed or unpaid family workers (predominately women). Unemployment rates for 1999 were 0.5 per cent for men and 0.6 per cent for women, with slightly higher rates in rural areas. Underemployment rates for 1999 were estimated at 8.6 per cent for men and 14.7 per cent for women. The labour force is growing at about 3 per cent per year.

Women are concentrated in low and unskilled employment, particularly in the informal sector. Women comprised only 11 per cent of total paid workers, but 64 per cent of unpaid workers, mainly in agriculture. Employment of women in the garment industry is reversing this trend to some extent, but the gender gap in education and training indicates that the gap in remuneration is likely to continue.

The Government has declared employment generation the most important strategy for poverty reduction in its Five-Year Development Plan for 1996-2000, and has made some progress, particularly in improving administration. The Committee notes that the UNDP/ILO project on vocational training for poverty alleviation has been completed and tripartite reviews have been carried out. Please provide further information on the follow-up taken, and on any other projects undertaken to develop training to promote employment. The Committee also notes that greater diversification of the economy is needed. The Committee would appreciate receiving further information on progress made to diversify the economy, particularly concerning agricultural and rural development. The Committee points out that ILO technical assistance is available to the Government.

The Committee notes that specific programmes have been undertaken by the Government, including mainstreaming the use of labour-based infrastructure development methods for rural development, and participating in the ILO/Japan project on employment promotion for people with disabilities. Please provide further information on the outcome of these programmes. Please also provide information on how the Ministry of Social Affairs, Labour, Vocational Training, and Youth Rehabilitation (MOSALVYR) coordinates its policies and programmes with the Ministry of Planning, and on how MOSALVYR promotes employment as part of the annual Consultative Group under the auspices of the World Bank.

Lastly, the Committee notes that the public employment service is largely underdeveloped and poorly utilized. It encourages the Government to seek ILO technical assistance to modernize the employment service and to integrate active labour market programmes in its functions.

Article 2.  The Committee notes from the Country Brief that statistics are not very reliable, due to limited access to certain areas of the country for security reasons, and to the use of classifications that do not always conform to ILO standard classifications for labour statistics. ILO/EASMAT reviewed the labour statistics system in Cambodia in 1995, and proposed a major programme to develop the system of labour statistics. The ILO also provided support to MOSALVYR to develop labour market indicators. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on whether progress is being made in implementing the findings of these studies and whether further technical assistance from ILO/EASMAT is needed. Please also provide information more generally on how policies and programmes are kept under review within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy.

Article 3.  The Committee notes that a tripartite Labour Advisory Committee was formed in 1999, comprised of workers’ and employers’ organizations, as well as government representatives. Please supply further information on the mandate of the Labour Advisory Committee, including whether it is consulted on the development and review of policies and programmes. Please also supply information on how the views of other persons affected, such as rural and informal sector workers, are taken into account.

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The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s brief report, in which it states that it is making efforts to expand the garment industry (where it aims to apply all core international labour standards), palm oil farms, and tourism in Siem Reap province. It notes from other sources that the Government has developed several other policies and programmes to promote employment. The Committee invites the Government to seek technical assistance when preparing its next report, in order to better aid the Committee in understanding the Government’s progress in implementing the Convention.

Article 1 of the Convention.  The Committee notes from the Country Brief, prepared by the Office for the World Employment Report, that GDP grew by 5 per cent in 1999; however, fundamental problems persist. Poverty remains widespread; the economy is not sufficiently diversified; and there is low domestic resource mobilization and an almost exclusive reliance on official aid for public investment programmes. Furthermore, human resource development is stagnating due to high repetition and dropout rates of school-age children.

Labour force participation rates for 1999 were 66.3 per cent for men and 65.9 per cent for women, with much higher rates in rural areas. The majority of workers are self-employed or unpaid family workers (predominately women). Unemployment rates for 1999 were 0.5 per cent for men and 0.6 per cent for women, with slightly higher rates in rural areas. Underemployment rates for 1999 were estimated at 8.6 per cent for men and 14.7 per cent for women. The labour force is growing at about 3 per cent per year.

Women are concentrated in low and unskilled employment, particularly in the informal sector. Women comprised only 11 percent of total paid workers, but 64 per cent of unpaid workers, mainly in agriculture. Employment of women in the garment industry is reversing this trend to some extent, but the gender gap in education and training indicates that the gap in remuneration is likely to continue.

The Government has declared employment generation the most important strategy for poverty reduction in its Five-Year Development Plan for 1996-2000, and has made some progress, particularly in improving administration. The Committee notes that the UNDP/ILO project on vocational training for poverty alleviation has been completed and tripartite reviews have been carried out. Please provide further information on the follow-up taken, and on any other projects undertaken to develop training to promote employment. The Committee also notes that greater diversification of the economy is needed. The Committee would appreciate receiving further information on progress made to diversify the economy, particularly concerning agricultural and rural development. The Committee points out that ILO technical assistance is available to the Government.

The Committee notes that specific programmes have been undertaken by the Government, including mainstreaming the use of labour-based infrastructure development methods for rural development, and participating in the ILO/Japan project on employment promotion for people with disabilities. Please provide further information on the outcome of these programmes. Please also provide information on how the Ministry of Social Affairs, Labour, Vocational Training, and Youth Rehabilitation (MOSALVYR) coordinates its policies and programmes with the Ministry of Planning, and on how MOSALVYR promotes employment as part of the annual Consultative Group under the auspices of the World Bank.

Lastly, the Committee notes that the public employment service is largely underdeveloped and poorly utilized. It encourages the Government to seek ILO technical assistance to modernize the employment service and to integrate active labour market programmes in its functions.

Article 2.  The Committee notes from the Country Brief that statistics are not very reliable, due to limited access to certain areas of the country for security reasons, and to the use of classifications that do not always conform to ILO standard classifications for labour statistics. ILO/EASMAT reviewed the labour statistics system in Cambodia in 1995, and proposed a major programme to develop the system of labour statistics. The ILO also provided support to MOSALVYR to develop labour market indicators. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on whether progress is being made in implementing the findings of these studies and whether further technical assistance from ILO/EASMAT is needed. Please also provide information more generally on how policies and programmes are kept under review within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy.

Article 3.  The Committee notes that a tripartite Labour Advisory Committee was formed in 1999, comprised of workers’ and employers’ organizations, as well as government representatives. Please supply further information on the mandate of the Labour Advisory Committee, including whether it is consulted on the development and review of policies and programmes. Please also supply information on how the views of other persons affected, such as rural and informal sector workers, are taken into account.

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1. The Committee notes the Government's report for the period ending June 1998. It also notes the statistical information concerning the number of applications for employment received and the number of persons placed in employment and requests the Government to provide as full and complete statistical information as possible on the situation and the trends of the active population, employment, underemployment and unemployment. The Committee hopes that in this regard the implementation of the various technical cooperation programmes to promote employment will make it possible to improve the collection and analysis of the necessary statistical information to draw up and implement employment policy. It requests the Government to indicate in its next report any progress which may have been achieved in this regard.

2. The Committee notes with interest the description of the technical cooperation projects which are being implemented in the areas of vocational training and the promotion of employment and requests the Government to indicate the results obtained from these projects. In particular, please specify to what extent the UNDP/ILO vocational training project to reduce poverty is contributing to the sustainable insertion of beneficiaries in employment. Please indicate the impact on employment of the implementation, since 1992, of the UNDP/ILO road infrastructure development programme (Part V of the report form).

3. The Committee notes that the employment promotion project, which benefits from a loan by the Asian Development Bank, envisages the creation of six employment promotion centres. Please provide information on the establishment of these centres as well as the nature and volume of their activities.

4. The Committee notes the legislative provisions which form the basis for an active policy to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment. It recalls in this regard that the measures to be taken in matters of employment policy should be decided on and kept under review, within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy, and in consultation with the representatives of the persons concerned, in accordance with Articles 2 and 3 of the Convention. With reference to its previous requests, the Committee hopes that the next report will contain information on the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that the representatives of employers and workers as well as the representatives of other sectors of the active population, such as persons employed in the rural or informal sectors, are consulted on the employment policy, "with a view to taking fully into account their experiences and views and securing their full cooperation in formulating and enlisting support for such policies".

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The Committee took note of the two successive reports submitted by the Government for the periods ending June 1995 and June 1996. It notes with interest the policy adopted to combat poverty and promote job creation appearing in the draft five-year plan (1996-2000) and invites the Government to provide, in its next report, as complete information as possible on the implementation of this policy with reference to the questions contained in the report form and to the following points.

1. The Committee notes the project to establish employment promotion centres designed to strengthen labour market information services and to promote vocational training and the employment of jobseekers. Please provide any information available on the establishment of these centres and the nature and scope of their activities. Please indicate whether particular training and employment measures are implemented in order to meet the needs of people with particular difficulties, such as the handicapped, displaced persons, members of the armed forces who have been demobilized or young people in search of their first job.

2. The Committee notes with interest the implementation of ILO technical cooperation projects designed to further the aims of the Convention. Please indicate any results which have been obtained through these projects, by specifying to what extent they have allowed their beneficiaries to find stable employment. Please indicate the action taken as a result of these projects (Part V of the report form).

3. With reference to its previous request, the Committee recalls the importance attached to giving full effect to the provisions of Article 3 of the Convention, which provides that representatives of the persons affected by the measures to be taken, and in particular representatives of employers and workers, shall be consulted concerning employment policies, "with a view to taking fully into account their experience and views and securing their full cooperation in formulating and enlisting support for such policies". The Committee hopes that the Government's next report will contain information on the way in which such consultations are guaranteed.

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The Committee notes the two government reports for the periods ending June 1993 and June 1994. It notes the Government's statement that the categories affected particularly badly by unemployment include refugees returning to the country, demobilized members of the armed forces and young persons seeking their first job. The Committee hopes that the Government will soon be in a position to undertake the surveys required to obtain the necessary statistical data for the implementation of an employment policy. It notes with interest that the principle of the free choice of employment is established in the Constitution, and that the promotion of employment and vocational training are among the Government's principal objectives.

The Committee requests the Government to continue providing as detailed information as possible on the declaration and pursuance of a policy to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment, with reference to the questions contained in the report form. It draws the Government's attention, in particular, to the questions raised under Article 3 of the Convention, concerning the consultation of the persons affected by employment policies. It hopes that the measures that are currently being taken to examine the procedures for the establishment of representative organizations of employers and workers will achieve their results in the near future, and that the Government will thereby be in a position to give effect to this fundamental provision of the Convention. Furthermore, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate the action taken as a result of the various ILO technical cooperation projects relating to employment which are being implemented and which should promote the application of the Convention (Part V of the report form).