Donors: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
Grant Manager: Tetra Tech International Development
Duration: August 2024 – January 2025
Budget: AUD $90,000
Coverage: National level with key activities in Phnom Penh and outreach to sub-national actors

Introduction 

The CAAS Grants Scheme supported API in strengthening democratic governance, social accountability, and inclusive policy development in Cambodia. The project focused on upgrading civic technology tools, enhancing monitoring and evaluation systems, and facilitating multi-stakeholder policy dialogues on critical issues such as access to information, digital rights, and climate resilience. Read the full  completion report of Cambodia Aid Advisory Services Grants Scheme.

Results

1. Strengthening Democratic Governance

• Upgraded API’s Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) system with 22 new features, ensuring secure hosting and PremiumSSL certification for three years.
• Developed user-friendly digital platforms for evidence-based reporting and citizen engagement.

2. Inclusive Policy Development

Organized three major policy dialogues:

• Phnom Penh Internet Forum (PPIF) 2024: 174 participants discussed digital rights, cybersecurity, and AI governance.
• National Dialogue on Smart Village Model: 160 participants explored sustainable rural development strategies.
• Policy Dialogue Workshop: 201 participants analyzed citizen scorecards and subnational budget reports.

3. Advocacy for Access to Information

• Celebrated International Day on Right to Information with 298 participants (online and offline), urging the government to expedite the adoption of the A2I Law.

Challenges

• Limited Private Sector Engagement: PPIF 2024 saw minimal participation from private companies and the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, reducing collaboration opportunities on digital rights.
• Administrative Delays: Invitations for the December policy dialogue were delayed due to ministry procedures, limiting time for participant confirmation.

Lessons Learned

• Early Stakeholder Engagement: Outreach should begin well in advance to secure participation from key ministries and private actors.
• Strategic Communication: Clear messaging on the value of participation improves engagement and fosters inclusive dialogue.
• Integrated Approach: Combining API’s research, digital tools, and global models in one event maximizes impact and visibility.