Cambodia Investment Review
Cambodia’s policymakers, researchers, and development partners gathered this week for the National Policy Forum 2025, underscoring a growing emphasis on evidence-based policymaking as the country navigates its transition toward sustainable development.
The forum, held on September 5 in Phnom Penh, was hosted by Australia and The Asia Foundation, drawing more than 200 participants from government ministries, research institutions, civil society, the private sector, and community groups.
Policy grounded in research
Delivering the keynote, H.E. Dr Vongsey Vissoth, Permanent Deputy Prime Minister and Minister in charge of the Office of Council of Ministers, stressed that integrating research and data into policymaking is crucial to ensuring national policies are responsive to the needs of all Cambodians—particularly the most vulnerable.
Australian Ambassador to Cambodia Derek Yip said the forum is part of Australia’s long-term support for the Kingdom’s knowledge sector, which he described as “an important platform to deepen connections between policymakers, researchers and civil society.” He added that robust data will be key in shaping policies that promote sustainable growth, climate resilience, and human development.
Strengthening Cambodia’s knowledge sector
The event was organized under the Ponlok Chomnes II: Data and Dialogue for Development in Cambodia program, funded by the Australian Government and implemented by The Asia Foundation. The initiative aims to bolster the country’s research and policy ecosystem by building collaboration across stakeholders and promoting inclusive dialogue.
Dolgion Aldar, Program Director for Ponlok Chomnes at The Asia Foundation, noted that Cambodia’s knowledge sector is steadily expanding. “This Forum, developed by our Cambodian research partners, shows how partnership and local expertise can enrich national policy dialogue,” she said.
The forum also marked the launch of the Ponlok Chomnes Guidelines on Research Quality and Inclusive Dialogue. Sessions covered issues ranging from climate change and migration to rural development, youth-led engagement, and research capacity-building. An Inclusive Awards Ceremony highlighted contributions in inclusive research, communication, and policy dialogue.
Looking ahead to LDC graduation
Cambodia’s pending graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status has raised the stakes for policymakers, who are under increasing pressure to adopt data-driven approaches that reflect the needs of diverse communities. Stakeholders at the forum emphasized that advancing an inclusive knowledge sector will be critical for shaping responsive policies and maintaining momentum toward sustainable growth.
