On 9 May 2025, Action Education / Aide et Action (AEA) Cambodia celebrated Europe Day and its long-standing partnership with the European Union (EU).
As our Country Director, Samphors Vorn, shared: “Happy birthday to the European Union. Wish you all the best and thank you so much. It’s our great honor and pleasure to work with you and receive your support.”
Europe Day is an opportunity to highlight the EU’s global commitment to human development and international cooperation. In Cambodia, this vision is reflected through EU support for initiatives addressing critical socio-economic and environmental challenges.
One example is CO-SAVED—the Consortium for Sustainable Alternatives and Voice for Equitable Development—a project co-funded by the EU to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities in Kampot, Kep, Koh Kong, and Preah Sihanouk provinces.
These regions rely heavily on fishing, yet face increasing pressure from climate change, illegal practices, and declining marine resources. CO-SAVED responds through an inclusive, multi-stakeholder approach that empowers communities to lead their own development.
Empowering People, Protecting the Planet
CO-SAVED brings together civil society, local authorities, the private sector, and communities to promote inclusive green economic growth, improve access to essential services, and support sustainable livelihoods.
Our partnerships seek to:
- Expand access to education
- Improve food security and nutrition
- Increase access to clean water, hygiene, sanitation, and affordable energy
- Support decent and dignified livelihoods through eco-tourism, agri-enterprises, fish processing, and small businesses
- Promote and co-finance green economy initiatives
- Raise awareness of environmental conservation and protection in coastal communities
A Shared Commitment to Lasting Impact
With the support of the EU, we are not just implementing a project—we are contributing to a global culture of dignity, sustainability, and empowerment. As we celebrate Europe Day, we extend our deepest thanks to the EU for its vision, solidarity, and partnership.
Together, we are proving that when communities are given the tools to lead, and when partners work hand in hand, transformation is not only possible—it is happening.
Happy Europe Day from Cambodia!
Photo: From left to right – Igor Driessmans, EU Ambassador to Cambodia, and Samphors Vorn, Country Director of Action Education / Aide et Action (AEA) in Cambodia.
