A new Human Development Report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has revealed that poverty in Cambodia has been cut in half since 2014, primarily due to improvements in health and living standards. However, the report also highlights ongoing challenges in education and housing.

Despite facing a series of global crises, Cambodia's Human Development Index (HDI) has increased by 56.9% since 1990, placing it in the medium human development category. The HDI measures long-term progress in health, education, and living standards. Cambodia has also made significant strides in gender equality, ranking 116 out of 170 countries on the gender inequality index in 2023.

However, digital access remains a challenge, with 40% of the population digitally excluded. The report also warns about the growing impact of climate change and environmental pressures on Cambodia's human development. Fossil fuels account for 85% of the country's energy consumption, and biodiversity is under threat due to habitat loss, pollution, and overexploitation.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have further exacerbated these challenges, leading to declines in income, employment, and healthcare services. While Cambodia has managed to maintain economic growth, the pandemic and global crises have disproportionately affected women and the most vulnerable populations. Despite these challenges, Cambodia is positioned at a crucial juncture to achieve its development goals. The report emphasises the need for a stronger and more resilient growth model that prioritises human development and environmental sustainability.