Development and Advocacy for Safe Public Water Transport Regulation in Cambodia

Summary

WHO is seeking for a qualified, eligible and competent proposer for the work on Development and Advocacy for Safe Public Water Transport Regulation in Cambodia. Drowning remains a critical yet under-addressed public health issue in Cambodia, disproportionately affecting children and communities living near rivers, lakes, and flood-prone areas. With major waterways such as the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake, alongside extensive canal systems and seasonal flooding, water transport is both essential and high-risk. Unsafe public water transport (e.g., boating) practices contribute to drowning incidents. Key risk factors include: • Overcrowded passenger boats • Absence or insufficient availability of life vests • Weak enforcement of existing safety measures • Limited safety awareness among operators and passengers These risks intensify during the rainy season when water levels rise, and currents become unpredictable. Despite these risks, public perception continues to underestimate the importance of basic water safety measures, with many believing that regulation is unnecessary for short-distance travel or for individuals who can swim. This misconception overlooks the reality that drowning incidents can occur quickly and unpredictably, regardless of distance or swimming ability, particularly in conditions such as strong currents, overcrowded vessels, or sudden weather changes. More critically, Cambodia currently lacks implementing regulations mandating the use of life saving equipment for passengers on boats and water transport. There is also no clearly defined legal obligation for public water transport operators to provide, monitor, or enforce the use of life-saving equipment. This regulatory gap results in inconsistent safety practices across the country and leaves passengers vulnerable to preventable risks. This situation presents a significant opportunity for targeted policy intervention. Strengthening regulatory frameworks, alongside enforcement mechanisms and public awareness campaigns, would align Cambodia with global best practices in water safety. Such actions would also support the country’s broader commitment to drowning prevention, as outlined by the World Health Organization and Cambodia’s National Strategic Plan on Drowning Prevention and Management 2025–2030. A coordinated approach—combining legislation, enforcement, and behavioral change initiatives—can play a critical role in reducing drowning incidents and safeguarding communities that rely on water transport as part of their daily lives. Please use the subject line WHO Bid Reference NCD-VIP-03-2026 in all email submissions. Proposals must be submitted to wproungm@who.int no later than 9 June 2026, 5 PM, UTC +7 .