Preventing risks related to population displacements : defining models of educational action in Cambodia

Abstract

This research focuses on living conditions before and after relocation of 'displaced' people in two communities with 1,700 families (around 6,800 people) in Phnom Phenh, Cambodia: Bhumi Andong Community and Bhumi San Sok Community. People of these two communities are different in their origin. However, due to their non-Cambodian citizenship (permanent immigrant status) they suffer similar problems before and after relocation. Before relocation their main problems are-illegal encroachment of public land, unhealthy living conditions, short notice mandate of relocation, coerced and unfair relocation practice, and non-participative the selection of new location. After relocation, similar problems have been repeated and living conditions are worsened . They have been driven to settle down in flood areas far away from the city in which there is no supply of electricity, running water, transportation, schooling and security system. When housing is not prepared for them in advanced, each family has to build their own living lodges with any materials available. They have to struggle hard with hostile attitudes of and attacks by the native settlers in nearby communities, lack of clean water supply, complete darkness in the night, and flood in rainy seasons. With the lack of road and transportation systems, parents become unemployed and their children cannot attend schools. Governmental intervention to manage land-ownership and to build infra-structure can solve problems temporarily. Land is leased, not permanently granted to families enlisted by governmental officials. The interventions of NGOs have made significant improvement in the areas of education for children, health care services, housing, and job trainings.