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With almost 46.6% of the Cambodian population constituting of youth aged under 24, they are the custodians of tomorrow and the driving force behind innovation, progress and positive change for future generations, hence, playing a pivotal role in contributing fresh perspectives in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for all. In a 2021 report by UNESCO and UNICEF, Cambodian youth advocated for more opportunities to be at the frontline helping to solve environmental issues.

With this, the event brought together young minds from diverse backgrounds, particularly focusing on students from media and journalism as well as environmental studies in various universities across Cambodia. By fostering dialogue and collaboration between future journalists, scientists and environmentalists, the event ignited meaningful conversations on the intersection of journalism and environmental crises. Through this dialogue platform, youth was empowered to discuss and advocate for journalism’s role in climate change, fostering dialogue with media professionals, and raising awareness of journalism’s impact on public perception and policy.

During the event, a short documentary video produced by DMC journalism students, featuring messages and perspectives from young journalism students, journalists as well as environmentalists on the importance of community-based environmental initiatives and how journalism can drive change in informing the public about environmental issues. Link to the documentary.

Mr. Ung Bun Y, the Director of DMC emphasized the need for unity amongst all key stakeholders, including youth to address the spread of mis/disinformation of climate change on social media “As environmental crises like natural disasters and climate change escalate, the spread of false information about these issues on digital platforms has become a significant challenge. To address this, we must unite—media students, environmental students, journalists, environmental experts, relevant ministries, civil society organizations, and other key institutions.”

Mrs. Susanna Elmberger, the Programme Officer – Human Rights, Democracy and Rule of Law 
Embassy of Sweden Section Office in Phnom Penh stressed the need for strong environmental journalism in Cambodia by stating that “The public needs a media with strong environmental journalism to provide reliable information to help citizens sort facts from fiction and dis-/misinformation on digital platforms and raise their awareness through accurate, timely and comprehensive reporting on environmental issues, their consequences and innovative solutions developed by communities.”

Mr. Jo Schuer, the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations in Cambodia, highlighted the crucial role of journalism in his remarks:

“What emerged from today’s discussions underscores a profound responsibility within the Cambodian context to inform the general population, ensuring that people are aware and capable of altering their behaviors to combat climate change. We witnessed numerous initiatives aimed at pollution cleanup, which I sincerely commend. These efforts are not only crucial but also demanding. There is nothing more difficult than behavioral change—it takes a lot of time and requires consistent, excellent communication to achieve. This is fundamental, and one key role of journalism is indeed to inform and educate people in society.”

The event was also participated by H.E. Tep Asnarith, Undersecretary and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Information who appreciated the organization of such important platform for Cambodian youths to meet and discuss the topic of journalism in addressing climate change which is the global agenda. In the closing remarks, he highlighted that “These environmental issues are not the problems of any one institution or individual; they are challenges we all face. Addressing them requires everyone's participation, including the dissemination and access to information. Ensuring the reliability of this information is crucial for active and effective involvement in resolving current and future environmental crises.”

This event is part of the project “Strengthening Media Development and Freedom of Expression in Cambodia”, financially supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), and the project “Building Back Better through Participation” financially supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia.