CRS History in Cambodia

CRS began providing humanitarian assistance to Cambodians fleeing conflict areas during the war that ran from 1973-1975. When CRS was forced to leave Cambodia, and the country went through a period of nearly total economic and political isolation, CRS was one of the first agencies to establish refugee camps on the border with Thailand. Over $15 million was allocated to assist Cambodian refugees from 1979 to 1990. In 1986, CRS regained a link with the isolated Cambodian people by providing relief and rehabilitation again inside Cambodia through support to CIDSE, a sister Catholic development agency.

When the signing of the Paris Peace Accords brought the prospect of peace, CRS re-opened its office in the capital, Phnom Penh, in October 1991. Field offices in the provinces followed as security allowed. Currently the country program employs a staff of 75 people, 71 of whom are Cambodians, and operates in Phnom Penh as well as Battambang, Prey Veng and Svay Rieng provinces. In addition, CRS Thaneakea Phum Village Banking Program became a locally registered microfinance institution in June 2002, and operates in 10 branch offices. Along with 14 local partners, CRS serves over 189,000 people in 468 villages located in 14 provinces, as well as Phnom Penh township.