Sustainability of Labor Arbitration in Cambodia
Mr. Hans S. Hwang addressed the National Industrial Relations Conference on the need to sustain the Arbitration Council and labor dispute resolution services in Cambodia. Mr. Hwang, Senior Director of Sok Xing & Hwang, led the panel comprised of representatives from the Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia, trade union federation and Ministry of Labor in a discussion on the costs and benefits of labor arbitration services provided by the Council, and the Arbitration Council sustainability strategy.
The Arbitration Council is Cambodia’s independent, national institution, authorized by law to resolve collective labor disputes across the country. One of the key challenges facing the Council is to secure financing to sustain and safeguard the institution and the independence, integrity and effectiveness of its services. To address this challenge, the Council, with assistance including from Mr. Hwang, developed its Sustainability Strategy and Action Plan. The Strategy sets out a roadmap for financial sustainability, including the diversification of funding sources, establishment of a multi-stakeholder financing facility, short-to-medium term fundraising from international donor sources, and long-term financing from the Council’s tripartite partners. Mr. Hwang presented the Sustainability Strategy to the Conference, provided updates on progress and challenges, and led a discussion on its feasibility and steps to realize sustainability.