Policy Forum

With support from the Australian Government, the Ponlok Chomnes Provincial Policy Forum 2026 under the theme “Connecting Communities, Evidence, and Policy: Strengthening Subnational Decisions for Cambodia’s Future” brought together over 120 provincial and national policymakers, community representatives, researchers, civil society, and local institutions under The Asia Foundation’s Ponlok Chomnes II: Data and Dialogue for Development in Cambodia program.

Participants shared provincial experiences and community realities on issues ranging from climate change and social protection to local innovation and migration. The Forum highlighted how local evidence, meaningful participation, and inclusive dialogue can lead to more responsive and practical policy decisions for Cambodia’s provinces.
Key discussions reinforced the importance of:
• Bringing community voices into policy spaces
• Strengthening collaboration between provincial and national actors
• Using local research and data to inform decisions
• Creating inclusive dialogue platforms that reflect diverse lived experiences
Insights from the Forum will contribute to ongoing provincial engagement and inform national-level policy dialogue.

Thank you to all speakers, community representatives, provincial authorities, partners, and participants for your valuable contributions.

Find all photos from the forum here: Provincial Policy Forum 2026