Cambodia: Between hope and fear
The Methodist Church in Cambodia has had a very difficult three years. Nevertheless, those in charge are hopeful. This is because many young people take on responsibility in the church, stand up for others and have a vision for their country.
In March, a multi-day consultation of the Methodist Church in Cambodia with the partner organizations in Phnom Penh. Connexio hope and develop, the relief organization of the Methodist:innen in Switzerland, was also represented. The time spent together gave an insight into the situation of the people in Cambodia and provided an opportunity to make contact with people who are committed to the country full of hope.
The economic engine is running
At first glance, the capital Phnom Penh gives the impression that Cambodia has survived the consequences of the pandemic. Many places are being built and invested in. New office complexes and large housing estates are being built, which remain unaffordable for most people in the country. Even if the current figures point to impressive economic growth, the situation remains difficult. Tourism, an increasingly important sector of the economy, came to a virtual standstill during the pandemic. In 2023, the number of tourists was only around half of what it was in 2019. In addition, some textile factories have closed in recent years. It is difficult for the people made redundant to find new work.
Increasing inequality
While the situation for people in cities has improved, life in rural areas remains difficult. Almost 80% of the population lives in rural areas, around 65% of which live from fishing or agriculture and forestry. Where food is produced, around 20% suffer from malnutrition. They also struggle with extreme weather events, low prices for agricultural produce and inflation.
Church facing major challenges
The Methodist Church is also feeling the contrasting developments. On the one hand, it has managed to bring its income back to pre-pandemic levels. On the other hand, it is becoming increasingly difficult for pastors to make a living. The average monthly income in the country is around USD 280, while the salary of a pastor is only around half of that. They work extra to secure their livelihood. Pastor Lun Sophy, the current president of the Cambodian Methodist Church, says that this situation is not conducive to the church, as it cannot develop without full attention. The church finances around a third of its total budget from its own resources. If support from partner organizations remains the same or decreases slightly, salaries cannot be increased. This also explains the problem of new recruits.
Serving other people
The Social Concerns Committee of the Methodist Church is responsible for the integrated rural development program. Leng Thy, the coordinator of the program, accompanies the 28 communities working with the program together with 13 volunteers. Srey Mom, a young woman from Kampong Chhnang province, accompanies and supports various communities near her home. She says that serving other people is part of her understanding of faith. It is motivating to see that the communities can improve their living conditions if they work together and develop a common vision. But it is also frustrating to have to endure when this does not succeed.
Do not be discouraged
Even before the pandemic, those responsible within the church became aware of the dedicated young woman. She was able to take part in an agricultural training course in Japan for eight months. Her limited knowledge of English at the time did not stop Srey Mom from traveling there. After the training, she was supposed to get a job in a related organization. The pandemic thwarted these plans. However, she was not discouraged, set up her own store and became a member of the committee. Discussions with various groups clearly show that her encouragement is greatly appreciated. The majority of the members of the savings and lending groups in the communities are women and greatly appreciate benefiting from Srey Mom's experience.
Text and photos: Ulrich Bachmann, Managing Director Connexio hope and develop
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