The goal of the “Youth in Policy: Skill Development and Engagement of Youth in Employment Related Policy” project was to empower young people in Cambodia to actively participate in shaping policies related to employment. Recognizing that youth had been largely excluded from the design and discussion of employment initiatives, the project aimed to build their capacity to engage in strategic policy dialogues. Through targeted training, mentoring, and the creation of advocacy platforms, the initiative sought to equip youth with the necessary tools to identify, articulate, and advocate for solutions to the employment challenges they face.
The project was implemented by the Advocacy and Policy Institute (API) in collaboration with UNDP Cambodia, as part of the United Nations Joint Programme on Youth Employment. It focused on youth-led organizations and young leaders from diverse backgrounds across four provinces—Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Takeo. Participants were selected through an inclusive process and trained in leadership, communication, problem-solving, advocacy, and policy engagement. These capacity-building efforts culminated in the development of youth advocacy plans and the organization of youth-led policy dialogues with government representatives and stakeholders.
Ultimately, the project aimed to bridge the gap between youth and policy-making institutions by creating a participatory model where young people could contribute to employment-related policies. It emphasized the importance of youth voices in shaping a more inclusive, equitable labor market that reflects their aspirations and realities. The experience also fostered confidence, leadership, and collaboration among the youth, laying a foundation for continued civic engagement and constructive dialogue with decision-makers.
The project successfully built the capacity of 50 youth leaders from diverse backgrounds, equipping them with skills in advocacy, leadership, and policy engagement related to youth employment. Participants completed intensive training sessions in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, developed five advocacy plans, and facilitated three policy dialogues in Phnom Penh, Battambang, and Siem Reap. These dialogues enabled direct interaction between youth and key stakeholders, including government ministries, local authorities, and the private sector.
Youth reported increased confidence, knowledge, and skills, with significant improvement shown through pre- and post-training assessments. They effectively identified key employment challenges—such as limited job information, low salaries, and lack of vocational training—and proposed practical solutions during the policy dialogues. Government officials acknowledged the issues raised and expressed willingness to collaborate with youth on future initiatives.
Overall, the project achieved its objectives by creating meaningful opportunities for youth to influence employment policy, fostering a new generation of informed, engaged advocates capable of contributing to Cambodia’s development.
