Cambodia’s journey through the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) process stands as a model for how a Least Developed Country (LDC) can transform climate vulnerability into institutional strength. Since initiating the NAP process in 2014, the Royal Government of Cambodia has made remarkable strides in embedding climate adaptation into national and sectoral development frameworks.
Building a Climate-Smart Governance Framework
The NAP process was institutionalized under the leadership of the National Council for Sustainable Development (NCSD) and the Department of Climate Change (DCC) within the Ministry of Environment. With technical support from UNDP, UNEP, and GIZ, Cambodia developed a comprehensive roadmap that aligned with the Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG) guidelines. This roadmap included three parallel workstreams: planning and steering, implementation, and review and learning.
Key achievements include:
- Integration of climate adaptation into the National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP) and sectoral plans such as agriculture, water, and energy.
- Development of the Cambodia Climate Change Strategic Plan (CCCSP) 2014–2023, which became the backbone for mainstreaming climate resilience across ministries.
- Establishment of a Climate Change Financing Framework in 2015, enabling transparent budgeting and mobilization of domestic and international funds.
Strategic Coordination and Data Systems
Cambodia’s NAP process emphasized harmonized data systems and GIS-based vulnerability assessments. These tools informed policy decisions and helped prioritize adaptation actions. The country also developed mechanisms for vertical integration—linking national strategies with sub-national implementation—ensuring that adaptation is not just top-down but community-informed.
International Recognition and Funding
Cambodia became one of the first LDCs to directly access Green Climate Fund (GCF) support for its NAP process, receiving approval in July 2022. This milestone reflects the country’s credibility and readiness in climate governance.