Empowering Youth Voices – The Second Youth Policy Dialogue in Cambodia

Groundbreaking Initiative With Diverse Participants

The Second Youth Policy Dialogue, held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia from January 18 to 20, 2025, marked a significant milestone in empowering young people to shape the future of the country.

They represented eight political parties, such as such as the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) and the Grassroots Democratic Party (GDP), and various civil society groups. Other participants were active youth leaders from universities and non-political organisations.

The dialogue not only provided youth a space to present evidence-driven policy proposals but also played a pivotal role in fostering unity across political divides, a crucial step in Cambodia’s evolving democratic process.

Youth Advocates for Change

In intense group discussions, role-playing exercises, and feedback sessions the participants refined each recommendation.

These recommendations were ultimately shared with key stakeholders – including political parties, civil society, and the media – for example through YCUD’s Facebook page, accompanied by a video to reach a broader audience.

Building Consensus Across Political Parties

One of the most groundbreaking outcomes of this dialogue was the collaboration between youth from eight different political parties. Despite their political differences, the participants worked together to develop policy solutions that transcended party lines. This unity was especially remarkable in a context where political space is shrinking and youth from opposition parties often face significant challenges. Through this dialogue, the young leaders were able to express their views openly, build consensus, and advocate for shared priorities.

It’s crucial for us because it helps address the issues we face and provides solid arguments that can convince policymakers to adopt our proposed changes.”

Khmer Will Party (KWP)

This sentiment was echoed across the dialogue, where young people found that facts and data-driven discussions helped navigate sensitive political topics, while also ensuring the safety of their participation.

A Focus on Data-Driven Solutions

The event’s format centered around creating actionable, data-driven recommendations for key stakeholders, including political parties, civil society, and the media. Among the 17 recommendations, some of the most pressing issues included the approval of an Alcohol Control Law, protecting youth from alcohol advertising, increased excise taxes on alcoholic products, and policies to protect cultural and environmental tourism sites.

The youth participants demonstrated a remarkable ability to craft comprehensive and well-researched proposals.

The data we use to support our recommendations is incredibly useful. Before, I didn’t know how to do it, but now I understand and can apply it in my party.”

Female youth leader from the Grassroot Democratic Party (GDP)

Enhancing Public Speaking and Advocacy Skills

In addition to policy development, the dialogue focused on enhancing participants’ public speaking and advocacy skills. Throughout the event, participants practiced presenting their ideas and rehearsed talking points in smaller groups.

Mr. Yong Kim Eng of PDP, a member of Movendi International and dedicated champion for youth participation in Cambodian politics, facilitated the dialogue and guided the participants through the process. Combined with interactive sessions on group discussions, policy presentations, and public speaking training, the dialogue helped participants refine their communication skills and build confidence in advocating for change.

Launching the Policy Recommendations

On the final day, the 17 youth policy recommendations were officially launched via a video presentation on YCUD’s Facebook page, reaching political parties, civil society, and the media. This online platform allowed the youth’s voices to be heard beyond the event itself, ensuring that their recommendations reached a broad audience, including decision-makers.

The dialogue concluded with participants expressing their intent to bring these recommendations back to their respective parties and communities. One participants reflected on their commitment:

I will share this information with other youth and my friends to help influence key stakeholders in shaping policy proposals.”

Participant from the Cambodian Youth Network

Strengthening Youth Participation in Cambodia’s Political Landscape

Despite challenges such as political sensitivities and the shrinking political space for young women, the event demonstrated the power of collaborative, evidence-based advocacy. YCUD’s commitment to creating a safe environment for dialogue allowed youth from both ruling and opposition parties to engage constructively, emphasising facts over political rhetoric.

The event’s success highlights the importance of providing youth with the tools and platforms to influence policy, foster collaboration, and engage in safe advocacy. By empowering young Cambodians to contribute to shaping public policy, the Youth Policy Dialogue is not just a step forward for youth engagement, but a step towards a more inclusive and democratic political future in Cambodia.

This initiative serves as an inspiring example of how youth can unite across political divides to advocate for common goals, with a focus on evidence-based solutions that have the potential to shape a better future for all.