Phnom Penh: In a heartfelt acknowledgment of dedicated service and leadership, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Cambodia has publicly commended Em Chan Makara for his significant contributions towards advancing the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWD) in his capacity as the Secretary-General at the Disability Action Council (DAC).
Roueida El Hage, the representative of OHCHR in Cambodia, expressed gratitude for the longstanding cooperation between the DAC and the OHCHR under Makara's leadership. Throughout his tenure, Makara has been instrumental in raising awareness about the rights of persons with disabilities and has been a pivotal figure in fostering collaboration between the DAC and OHCHR. His efforts have been crucial in emphasizing the Royal Government of Cambodia's commitment to the promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities, aligning with the International Convention on Persons with Disabilities, which the country ratified in 2012.
El Hage highlighted a joint training organized by DAC and OHCHR in October 2023, focusing on access to justice for persons with disabilities. During this event, Makara underscored the Cambodian government's prioritization of the disability sector within its Pentagonal Strategy, showcasing his unwavering commitment to this cause.
Roueida El Hage, Representative, OHCHR in Cambodia wishes H.E. Makara all the best in his transition to the Ministry of Justice and looks forward to continuing the cooperation of OHCHR with him in his new role.
His leadership and advocacy have significantly contributed to shining a spotlight on the rights of persons with disabilities in Cambodia, marking a notable advancement in the country's human rights efforts. As Makara transitions to his new role at the Ministry of Justice, El Hage expressed her best wishes for his future endeavors and anticipates continued cooperation with him to further the mission of OHCHR in Cambodia.
"The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Cambodia (OHCHR) has had longstanding cooperation with Em Chan Makara through his role as Secretary-General at the Disability Action Council (DAC). During his mandate, he raised the attention on Persons with Disability (PWD) rights and fostered cooperation between DAC and OHCHR. On many occasions, he emphasised the commitment of the Royal Government of Cambodia to promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, in line with the International Convention on Persons with Disabilities, which Cambodia ratified in 2012. I recall his statement at a training on access to justice that DAC and OHCHR jointly organised in October 2023, which highlighted that the Government has identified the disability sector as a priority within the Pentagonal Strategy. His leadership has surely played a role in placing a much-needed spotlight on Persons with Disability rights in Cambodia.” Roueida El Hage
This endorsement from the OHCHR serves as a testament to Makara's impactful work and the positive changes he has helped bring about for the disability community in Cambodia. It also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between government bodies and international organizations in advancing human rights and social justice.
