PROTECTING CAMBODIA'S NATURAL RESOURCES
Hundreds of fishermen and foresters recently assembled in Kampong Thom Provincial Hall to discuss threats to natural resources. Facilitated by The Asia Foundation, it was the first time they'd met with high-level provincial and national officials. On stage, fishermen from Stung Kambot explained how they'd worked with authorities on a law to prohibit illegal nets in protected areas. Prior to this, they said, "they were helpless when fishermen violated the fishery law and destroyed their fishing resources." Illegal fishing violations have reportedly dropped 50% in recent weeks. Forestry workers shared similar experiences: being "legally recognized by the Forestry Administration is like a citizen having an identity card. We can ask for intervention from officials when there is illegal cutting. We can save our resources for future generations." Read more on our blog.
