NGOs Assess Refugee Camps in Cambodia's Northwest

**International NGOs Assess Refugee Camps Amid Post-Conflict Recovery in Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap**PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (August 12, 2025) — A coalition of international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) has completed an assessment of refugee camps in Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap provinces, focusing on the urgent needs of displaced families following a recent period of conflict The assessment, conducted over the past two weeks, revealed the harsh living conditions within the temporary shelters and underscored the immediate and long-term humanitarian challenges The assessment teams, comprised of representatives from organizations such as Doctors Without Borders, the International Red Cross, and several smaller, regionally focused NGOs, documented widespread shortages of essential resources This includes a critical lack of clean water, adequate sanitation facilities, sufficient food supplies, and basic medical care Many families are living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, raising concerns about the potential for disease outbreaks The situation is dire," stated Dr.

Anya Sharma, a lead assessor from Doctors Without Borders. Many families have lost everything.

Background

They are vulnerable and in desperate need of assistance. Immediate action is needed to prevent a further humanitarian crisis.

The assessment highlighted the psychological trauma experienced by displaced individuals, particularly women and children. Many reported witnessing violence or experiencing significant loss during the conflict.

Access to mental health services is extremely limited within the camps, further exacerbating the already precarious situation.

Beyond the immediate humanitarian needs, the NGOs emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive strategy focused on long-term recovery and sustainable solutions This includes support for shelter reconstruction, the restoration of livelihoods, and the provision of educational opportunities for children The lack of infrastructure and employment opportunities in the affected areas presents a major obstacle to successful resettlement The assessment report, which will be submitted to the Cambodian government and international donors, includes detailed recommendations for immediate action, including increased funding for humanitarian aid, improved coordination between government agencies and NGOs, and the establishment of long-term development programs The NGOs have appealed for increased international support to address the complex challenges of post-conflict recovery in the region Current SituationThe conflict, though officially concluded, has left a lasting impact on the lives of thousands The displacement of families and destruction of infrastructure highlight the need for comprehensive and sustained efforts towards rebuilding communities and fostering lasting peace The findings of this assessment serve as a critical step in mobilizing the necessary resources and support to achieve these goals The report also stresses the regional implications of the displacement, noting that the instability could affect neighboring provinces and potentially destabilize the region The assessment's findings underscore the urgent need for a coordinated international response to support Cambodia's efforts in post-conflict rehabilitation and reconstruction The collaborative efforts of international NGOs signal a commitment to addressing both the immediate humanitarian needs and the long-term challenges facing these communities The Cambodian government has expressed its appreciation for the work of the international NGOs and pledged to collaborate closely with them in implementing the recommendations outlined in the assessment report This collaboration is vital for ensuring effective and sustainable support for the displaced families and for the overall process of post-conflict recovery in the affected areas of Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap provinces Further details about the assessment, including specific recommendations and plans for aid distribution, are expected to be released by the participating NGOs in the coming weeks The international community's continued attention and support are vital for enabling a successful transition toward peace and sustainable development in northwest Cambodia The situation in Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of conflict and the importance of continued international cooperation in addressing humanitarian crises and promoting peacebuilding initiatives in Southeast Asia and beyond The collaborative assessment is a critical first step, but sustained engagement and resource allocation are imperative for successful and lasting recovery in these provinces