Higher wages in Cambodia

Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in Asia. The country is changing rapidly, from a traditional agricultural country to a low-wage economy. The textile industry is particularly important, yet the working conditions in this sector are poor and tens of thousands lost their jobs in the pandemic. Together with independent unions, Solidar Suisse fights for higher wages, better working conditions and more participatory debate.

Exploitation and climate change  

Clothing and shoes are by far the country’s most important exports. Many large international companies use production sites in Cambodia, yet wages are low and working hours are long. Independent unions that champion workers’ rights are restricted by the government and legal requirements are not respected. The Covid-19 pandemic has caused the situation of workers to deteriorate further; at least 50,000 workers have lost their jobs because international fashion brands have cancelled orders.

Cambodia has a young population – the average age is around 25 years. Many people are unable to find work in their local area and have to travel abroad to seek work in Thailand, Malaysia or Indonesia. They have few rights which makes them a target for exploitation, abuse and human trafficking. Many are sent back over the border to Cambodia completely destitute. 

In addition to this, Cambodia is particularly heavily hit by climate change. Crops are failing more frequently. Many farmers have to become indebted to buy food and seeds. This triggers a vicious circle that too often leads the family into debt bondage. 

  • Life expectancy: 69 years  Average life expectancy in Switzerland: 83,6 years
  • Literacy rate: 81% Literacy rate among adults in Switzerland: 99,9 %
  • Gini Index: 37 The Gini Index measures the degree of income inequality: The higher the number, the more inequality. Switzerland: 32,7
Motorcyclists in a very narrow street blocked with clothes and pots Motorcyclists in a very narrow street blocked with clothes and pots

Cramped living conditions for textile workers. © Solidar Suisse

Strengthening civil society organisations

Solidar Suisse champions the rights of indebted farmer families in brick factories. Many have been driven into brickworks by their desperate situation and work off their debts there – with no prospect of ever freeing themselves from the situation of debt bondage.

On the border with Thailand, women and children who have fallen victim to exploitation and human trafficking are provided with shelter, legal advice and psychological care. In Cambodia’s neighbour countries, Solidar Suisse works with partner organisations to fight for the rights of migrants. 

Further partner organisations of Solidar Suisse inform textile workers of their rights, support them in labour conflicts and train them in negotiating strategies. It is a rocky path but we repeatedly achieve victories that we can celebrate. In 2018, the minimum wage was increased from 153 to 170 US dollars per month. It has since risen to 192 US dollars per month. 

«Through the pressure they exert on prices, international fashion brands that use production sites in Cambodia contribute to low wages, excessive working hours and repression of unions.»

Tola Moeun Director of Central, a Solidar partner organisation.

Projects in Cambodia

Against exploitation

Together with our partner organisations, we help workers to successfully defend their rights.

Read more

Support for migrant women

Women and children in particular are victims of exploitation and human trafficking. Solidar Suisse supports those in need.

Read more

Prevention of forced labour

In Cambodia, many agricultural workers fall into debt bondage and forced labour. Solidar Suisse supports these people with ongoing training and advice. In Cambodian brickworks we support the unions that advise workers. As a result of our efforts, workers are now registered in the new national social security system.

Read more

Help for people in Cambodia

Make a donation to support disadvantaged women, children and men in Cambodia.

Your donation

With your donation you help people in Cambodia in their fight against slavery and exploitation.

Back to top