Cambodia is a land of stunning temples, vibrant culture, and some of the youngest people in the world—but beneath its beauty lies a story of deep pain and resilience. In just four years, from 1975 to 1979, the Khmer Rouge regime killed nearly a quarter of the population, leaving lasting scars that still shape the nation today.
Yet out of this tragedy has emerged a generation full of potential, with over half the population now under the age of 30. While Cambodia faces serious challenges like corruption, poverty, and malnutrition, its people carry a quiet strength and hope for a better future. It’s a country worth knowing, remembering, and loving.

Key Stats:

• Population: ~17.8 million

• Over 50% under the age 30

• Khmer Rouge genocide deaths: 1.5–2 million (1975–1979)

• Government: Constitutional monarchy (multiparty in name)

• Poverty rate: ~17–19%

• Without safe drinking water: ~1 in 3 people

• Corruption rank: 158th out of 180 countries (2024 CPI)

• Famous for: Angkor Wat – largest religious monument in the world

Significance as a Target Nation

• The fact that 80% of the population is under 30 years old means that it truly is possible to change this nation in ONE generation! They need more laborers for this harvest field…

• Cambodia is becoming connected with ASEAN, therefore impacting Cambodia will mean impacting the surrounding nations.

• U of N Battambang targets Vietnam, Laos, China, and Myanmar (the surrounding closed nations) and it is easier for Khmer to enter than Westerners. So there are strategic opportunities to train up those who can go into these closed nations and bring transformation.