The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $10 million grant to Cambodia, marking a strategic move toward the nation's ambitious goal of eliminating gender-based violence (GBV) by 2030. This project is ADB's first dedicated grant focused on gender equality in Southeast Asia under the Asian Development Fund (ADF), highlighting a new phase in regional gender-focused development.

Cambodia has made significant strides against GBV, yet the incidence remains high. ADB's funding aims to tackle the issue with a multifaceted approach, prioritizing legal reform, local-level service improvements, and digital solutions to address both prevention and response. One key aspect of the initiative is the planned update of Cambodia's domestic violence legislation, which will help fortify the country's legal framework to better protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.

The grant also focuses on enhancing the quality and accessibility of GBV response services in rural areas, where survivors often have limited access to support. Plans include the refurbishment of shelters and capacity-building for local service providers, aiming to create a safety net that is both more accessible and responsive to survivor needs.

In a push for digital innovation, the project will implement digital solutions within school-based and community programs, offering round-the-clock access to educational resources, awareness-raising tools, and response services. This digital strategy is intended to build a continuum between GBV prevention and response, maximizing impact through accessible, real-time information.

ADB's Cambodia Country Director Jyotsana Varma emphasized that the project aims to "expand access to shelters and ensure survivors receive the care they need." She added that the initiative will empower local communities, placing them at the forefront of prevention efforts and raising awareness on stopping violence before it occurs.

While Cambodia has piloted promising prevention approaches with government and civil society efforts, ADB's targeted support signals a shift toward sustainable, systemic change in the fight against GBV. By leveraging both legislative and community-based solutions, the project reflects an analytical approach to tackling a persistent issue with tailored, long-term interventions.