The Cambodian Labour Confederation (CLC) celebrated the 139th International Labor Day on May 1, 2025, under the theme “Join the Union and Association to Improve Living Condition and Social Protection.” The event brought together federations, unions, and worker associations from all sectors, along with representatives from partner unions, the Ministry of Labor, national and international organizations—gathering approximately 2,000 participants. The celebration included a march, banner displays, and balloon releases at Koh Norea, Phnom Penh.
Workers’ rights and social protection are essential foundations for ensuring decent work, economic security, and social justice. In Cambodia, while labor laws exist to protect workers, many still face difficulties accessing their fundamental rights—such as fair wages, safe working conditions, and social security. These challenges are especially severe for garment workers, construction workers, informal sector workers, and those in agriculture.
A robust social protection system—including health insurance, workplace injury compensation, maternity benefits, and pensions—is crucial for the well-being of workers. However, access remains limited, particularly for informal workers, who make up the majority of Cambodia’s labor force. Ensuring comprehensive social protection is key to reducing poverty, promoting economic stability, and securing workers’ futures.
The Cambodian Labor Union was established on April 9, 2006 and registered at No KB / VK on December 31, 2008 at the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training, a democratic and independent federation. Currently, CLC has 124023 members from 10 member federations, associations and unions ...