The United Nations Population Fund - UNFPA
 in Cambodia



Reproductive Health
including Family Planning and Sexual Health

   UNFPA’s efforts in improving access to quality reproductive health information and services focus on improving the distribution and use of contraceptives, including condoms for the prevention of STIs and HIV/AIDS and on building up the capacity of the Government and NGOs to plan and manage comprehensive reproductive health programmes. As part of this initiative, UNFPA has developed four community based distribution pilot projects in four provinces that concentrate on contraceptives supplies. So far, 110 field workers have been trained and a network of distribution points established.

   Two safe motherhood pilot projects were also launched. These encourage birth spacing and use of health facilities for deliveries.

   One of the most notable projects is the community outreach for better reproductive health. An evaluation noted the following:

  • Birth spacing had more than doubled among those women who have been visited by a volunteer or midwife.
  • Over 80 per cent of women visited by a volunteer had detailed knowledge of how to prevent STIs and HIV/AIDS.
  • Close to 90 per cent of women visited by a volunteer or health worker had information about modern contraceptive methods and where to access services.

Population and Development

   In 2000 the government of Cambodia launched the first census in 36 years, with UNFPA support. The census was a major undertaking and contributed significantly to the country’s capacity to plan for future needs. In addition, a Demographic Health Survey was also carried out in 2000 with assistance from UNFPA, UNICEF and USAID. The information gathered will greatly assist the Government in targeting donor funds and providing baseline data against which to measure progress.

   Another UNFPA initiative on demographic and population teaching strengthened the capacity of national institutions to integrate population and development concerns into national planning. As part of this strategy, a master plan was formulated for incorporating population and demographic studies into the regular curriculum of the Royal University of Phnom Penh.

Advocacy

   UNFPA’s work in this crucial area began in 2000. The Fund’s main activities include:

  • Development of a Gender Resources Library in the Ministry of Women’s and Veteran’s Affairs.
  • Training of gender focal points in ten line ministries.
  • Organization of "gender forums" with high-level decision-makers (Secretaries of State, members of Parliament and senators).


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