CASE STUDY #1
Cambodia & Civil Society
THE CHALLENGE
Since 2016, Cambodia has undergone significant declines in democratic progress. New investment and some areas of government reform led to significant GDP growth but not to the expansion of civil liberties.
THE SOLUTIONS LAB APPROACH
After gaining a full understanding of the facts, we assessed the extent of democratic regression and conducted research to inform high-level country strategy capable of supporting progress on key areas of government reform while continuing to provide support for vital human rights organizations to carry out their work. We were able to create alternative pathways to support important civil society actors by focusing on increasing the participation of women in small business, and by creating new opportunities for youth to engage in non-political networks. We also recommended providing support to independent research institutions to counter restrictions on academic freedom.
Employing an international team of researchers using mixed methods research, we worked closely with our client on the development of strategic and actionable recommendations to avoid potential funding reductions that would have jeopardized the vital, decades-long work of civil society organizations defending human rights, protecting natural resources, and maintaining civic space.
THE RESULT
Our analysis provided our client with a deeper understanding of the many challenges involved, but also of the opportunities for engagement with key stakeholders interested in reform. The assessment received critical acclaim and was presented to high-level decision makers at USAID, the National Security Council, and the White House. The DRG shaped and informed sensitive considerations about the role malign actors can play in damaging the democratic progress.