US$2 million Poipet Victim Rehabilitation Centre Unveiled, Signifying Cambodia’s Commitment Against Human Trafficking

• 18 December 2023
• Local News
• 1763 Views

The Poipet Victim Rehabilitation Centre in Banteay Meanchey Province was formally inaugurated on 18 December 2023 presided over by HE Sar Sokha, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking (NEC). This state-of-the-art facility, valued at over US$2 million, is emblematic of Cambodia’s resolute stance against human trafficking.

The Poipet Victims Rehabilitation Centre stands as a testament to the Royal Government’s unwavering commitment to address the critical needs of victims and those vulnerable to human trafficking. Providing essential services such as temporary accommodation, food, healthcare, education, vocational training, and life skills, the centre is a haven, free from racial discrimination and supportive of individuals with disabilities.

According to HE Chea Somethy, Minister of Social Affairs, the establishment of this new infrastructure underscores the government’s dedication to implementing policies and strategic plans aimed at preventing and addressing human trafficking. The centre aligns with Cambodia’s development needs, offering rehabilitation, integration, and protection of victims’ rights.

Deputy Prime Minister Sar Sokha emphasised the centre’s significance, being the first of its kind established through collaboration between the Royal Government of Cambodia and Thailand. Specifically designed to assist victims, especially those who have fallen prey to human trafficking or left the country for overseas work, the centre is a beacon of hope and a symbol of country cooperation.

With a focus on holistic recovery, the centre provides vocational training in tailoring, salon/cooking, dessert making, and electricity, water, and air conditioning. The Kingdom of Thailand’s generous grant financed the construction, amounting to US$2,199,920, covering a substantial area of 9,768 square metres in Prachea Thom Khang village, Banteay Meanchey province.

In the first nine months of 2023, the Poipet Centre welcomed and supported 16,349 repatriated migrant workers from Thailand, demonstrating its pivotal role in aiding victims of human trafficking and fostering a brighter future.

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