Phnom Penh, May 30, 2025 – UNICEF France Ambassador and former Miss France, Elodie Gossuin, completed a heartfelt visit to Cambodia, spotlighting the severe impact of climate change on children and showcasing resilient, climate-smart initiatives supported by UNICEF.
Accompanied by UNICEF teams, Gossuin toured Siem Reap province and the Tonle Sap region. A mother of four and long-time child rights advocate, she met children and families who are grappling with daily climate-induced challenges.
Her visit aimed to amplify efforts that combine environmental awareness with access to healthcare, education, and clean water—core essentials threatened by increasingly extreme weather.
Climate Change Threatens Children’s Rights
Cambodia ranks 46 out of 163 countries on UNICEF’s Children’s Climate Risk Index (CCRI), putting it among the highest-risk nations globally. Droughts, floods, and environmental hazards are jeopardizing food security, education, and public health, especially for vulnerable children.
More than one-third of Cambodia’s children—around two million—live in climate-exposed zones. These children face regular disruptions to essential services, leaving them more vulnerable during natural disasters and public health emergencies.
In Siem Reap, Gossuin visited a solar-powered, flood-resistant school that promotes life skills and environmental education. The model school remains operational even during climate shocks, exemplifying how adaptation can ensure continued learning.
She also met local authorities and private sector partners working on climate-resilient water supply systems in Chi Kreng district, a critical step toward securing clean water for remote communities.
Floating Health Centers and Family Safety Nets
On Tonle Sap Lake, Gossuin observed a floating health center that brings healthcare to otherwise unreachable communities. These adaptive solutions are part of UNICEF’s broader mission to maintain service delivery amid fluctuating water levels.
Dr. Will Parks, UNICEF Cambodia Representative, emphasized the importance of these efforts. “Children are the least responsible for this crisis but suffer the most. Elodie’s support strengthens our drive to build systems that protect their future,” he said.
Throughout her journey, Gossuin engaged with families benefiting from the Family Package—a social protection program offering scholarships, prenatal care, and cash assistance to the most vulnerable.
She also explored initiatives led by Buddhist monks and community leaders that build climate awareness and promote non-violence and positive discipline. Youth involvement stood out, with young leaders presenting creative ways to combat environmental risks and safeguard their communities.
“Climate change disrupts everything—and children always pay the highest price,” Gossuin said. “But here in Cambodia, I saw hope. Families standing strong. Youth stepping up. That’s the future I believe in.”
Her visit reaffirms the urgency of global support in building climate resilience and highlights Cambodia’s role in shaping child-centered solutions to one of the world’s most pressing challenges.
