Youth

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Background
Cambodia has one of the youngest populations in the world. From 1975 to 1979, an estimated 1.7 million people – one in four Cambodians – died under Khmer Rouge rule, and many thousands more fled the country. As a result, 70% of the current population is less than 30 years old. This young generation is optimistic about the future and eager to develop the country, presenting USAID with many opportunities and challenges. Each year, 250,000 youth enter the work force, but the economy struggles to find employment for all of them. A weak education system ill prepares them for careers in the global economy. Poor nutrition and deaths from preventable disease disproportionately affect young people. Meanwhile, an entrenched system of patronage discourages youth involvement in government and civil society.

Objectives
Rather than rely on stand-alone programs that target youth, USAID ensures that nearly all of its programs in Cambodia have a youth component, whether in health, education, economic growth or governance. Not only are these programs making an impact on some of the biggest problems facing young people, they are also encouraging youth to get involved in their communities and civil society, ensuring that they are active participants in the long-term development of Cambodia.