(as prepared for delivery)

  • Ms. Sdeung Phearong, Program Manager, Transparency International Cambodia
  • Ladies and Gentlemen

Good morning!  

First, let me share a few words of appreciation. I would like to thank our partner Transparency International Cambodia for inviting me to be with you today. USAID is proud to have partnered with your organization to help women and youth promote democracy and transparency. I am pleased to note that we are working together on such an important issue.

Increasing the number of women and youth in leadership positions is critical, not only because it encourages an inclusive and diverse society, but because it also ensures that people who are on the margins of society are heard and appreciated. The United States is also proud to continue its long-standing role as a global champion for women on the frontlines of policy, peace, and security decision-making processes and advancing the safety of women and girls.We know that when women are engaged in peace and security efforts, we are all safer, more prosperous, and more secure.

Transparency International Cambodia has helped women and youth to actively participate in the decisions that affect their lives. That participation has increased young people’s appreciation for the importance of accountability, transparency, and democratic governance. I know this is the reason you are participating in this forum today.

As part of our partnership, USAID funded Transparency International Cambodia to conduct a study on the progress towards the promotion of women and youth leadership. 96 percent of study respondents said it is important to have women’s voices in decision making if they are to have their concerns addressed. 92 percent of the respondents also agreed that new ideas and a willingness to take risks can make youth good leaders.

These findings show us that you are the key to your country’s future. As the 32nd President of the United States - Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future.” 

Don’t stop searching for the education, the guides, and the encouragement that will help you achieve your dreams and visions. Use your voice, go the extra distance, reach out, and don’t give up.

We are depending on you to improve your environment so that Cambodia continues to grow in both peace and prosperity. The quality of your life will be determined by the quality of your contribution.  When you work to improve the lives of others, your life improves accordingly. 

I know that everyone must have heard of the arrest of some passionate and brave young people who were documenting pollution, which is a public service to their communities. We at the embassy are very troubled to hear of this and expressed our concerns publicly, as many of you may know. The Cambodian constitution protects freedom of speech and other human rights and we at the U.S. government will continue to support those that exercise such rights, whether they are journalists, peaceful political activists, or youth like you striving to improve your world.

There are three skill sets as a foundation for youth leadership- communication, analytic thinking, and positive involvement in the community. USAID hopes that this forum will continue to teach you about these leadership skill sets, the foundation of civic engagement, and your responsibilities as a good citizen. 

I also hope these lessons will encourage you to reach for the stars. You are capable of anything you set your mind to, and I know that you will succeed beyond your imagination.

Thank you to all the organizers and best of luck to the participants.