Cambodia is a largely agricultural (75% of the work force) country in South-east Asia, facing formidable challenges to rebuild strong economic, political and social institutions that were destroyed by the Pol Pot regime and in two decades of war. It is at a crossroads in its development, as it moves from a post-conflict situation towards a process of more stable growth. It has relatively good natural resources and geography, but has been deeply affected by many years of war and destructive leadership.

The population of Cambodia is 13.5 million. As a result of the Khmer Rouge years and subsequent repopulation, Cambodia has a predominantly youthful population, with 45% of the population below 18 years old. Poverty rates remain high, with 35-40% below the income poverty line ($1/day), and 15-20% in extreme poverty (0.50c or less/day). 20.9% of the population live in urban areas, which have benefited most from economic growth, and poverty is worse in remote rural areas.

The root causes cited for why they are at risk continue to be dominated by poverty agenda. Poverty is currently the major determinant for International donors and therefore Governments in the developing world.