Phnom Penh, September 27, 2024 — The Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans, and Youth Rehabilitation marked the 12th National and 67th International Day of the Deaf, emphasizing the importance of supporting and advocating for people with hearing disabilities.

Minister Chea Somethy, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Disability Action Council, led the event on September 25, bringing together key stakeholders to recognize the day and discuss the challenges faced by the deaf community.

In his address, Minister Somethy referred to the 2019 Cambodia census, which revealed that 4.9 percent of the country’s 16-million population live with disabilities, with 2.8 percent of those being deaf.

He noted that the impact of hearing disabilities extends beyond individuals, affecting families, friends, and communities, and often leading to economic challenges.

The Cambodian government, through the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans, and Youth Rehabilitation and the Disability Action Council, remains committed to addressing the needs and challenges of people with disabilities, including the deaf community and their families. Disability has been prioritized as a key sector within Cambodia’s broader social protection framework.

As part of these efforts, the government has established the National Institute of Special Education, which trains professional teachers to educate individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to quality education and the opportunity to pursue future careers.