Since its founding in 2003, API has played a key role in advancing government decentralization and public financial management reforms. Notable achievements include successful advocacy for Social Protection policy changes during and after COVID-19, contributing to the 2023 National Strategy for Informal Economy Development, the 2023 Public Procurement Law Amendment, the Draft Law on Access to Public Information (2018 & 2020), and annual budget increases for sub-national administration, education, health, agriculture, and social development since 2017. API also supported the full implementation of the Social Accountability Framework (2016-2025), the 2015 Road Traffic Law revision, and the 2010 Anti-Corruption Law adoption.
API has strengthened the capacity of 170 community-based organizations—mainly focused on natural resource management as well as groups representing people with disabilities, youth, women, and indigenous peoples—to engage in commune development decision-making. These groups gained confidence to raise community issues with local authorities across nearly 400 communes, 700 primary schools, and 200 health centers between 2016 and 2024. This resulted in over 300 advocacy cases successfully addressed, benefiting communities nationwide, including many indigenous groups. API’s work spans 19 of Cambodia’s 24 provinces, integrating citizens’ voices into decision-making in 605 communes and 91 districts, covering 85% of all sub-national administrations.
This inclusive approach has enhanced public service delivery and accountability in health centers, schools, and local administrations, ensuring community needs are met. API’s consistent relevance and professionalism have earned broad recognition nationally.
