This collection of studies delves into various aspects affecting Urban Poor Communities in Cambodia.
The first study explores the awareness of three Urban Poor Communities in Cambodia regarding their participation rights in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process. Findings indicate limited awareness, citing barriers like communication gaps and insufficient information. “I had no idea what EIA was or what my rights related to it were, until we formed the community, and it was only then that we became aware of it (EIA). Unfortunately, by that time, it was already too late as the sewage had already been damaged by the nearby gated community construction and the water had already flooded our community,” said a member in Prek Takong 3 community. The study recommends improving public participation through heightened awareness, legal framework strengthening, and enhanced transparency.
A second study investigated living conditions and challenges in a poor community in Phnom Penh amid garbage and contaminated water. It seeks to identify the causes of waste, providing valuable insights for addressing this community challenges and similar areas in Phnom Penh. “At the beginning, it flowed. But now no garbage comes out. When we clear it, it does not go. It emerges from the underground,” said a community member in Boeung Chhouk Meanchey Thmey II.
A third research project investigates the challenges and impacts of climate change on two impoverished communities. It aims to understand communities’ adaptation and provide recommendations for viable solutions. Interviews highlight erratic climate conditions, inadequate drainage, business challenges, and increased water and electricity costs. “It stinks so badly, especially when it rains. And, when the rain stops it smells even worse. Since it stinks so badly, I got a nasal allergy now”, said a resident aged about 30 years old in the Reaksmey Samaki community.
And the fourth research project investigated noise pollution challenges and effects in two communities in Phnom Penh. It focused on understanding status, sources, and types of noise pollution, along with examining consequences and proposing solutions. “The source of noise pollution arises from the parties and excessive drinking habits of our neighbors. Most of these individuals gather on weekends, playing music and singing at high volumes. They come together and party from as early as 8 am until at least 11 pm,” said a teenager in Andong 1 community.
These distinct research projects shed light on various challenges faced by Urban Poor Communities in Phnom Penh, including limited awareness of their rights and participation in the EIA process, issues with waste management, the impact of climate change on their daily lives, and the effects of noise pollution. Through these studies, recommendations are provided to enhance the living conditions and well-being of these communities.
You can download the report as a PDF file here! Khmer – English
For further information please contact:
Mr. Soeung Saran, Executive Director of Sahmakum Teang Tnaut Organization.
Signal: 089 666 013
Email: director@teangtnaut.org
Mrs. Prak Sotheary, Research Advocacy Advisor at Sahmakum Teang Tnaut Organization.
Signal: 012 464 500
Email: advisor1@teantnaut.org
