AKP Phnom Penh, June 05, 2026 --

Future Forum, in partnership with the Australian Government and The Asia Foundation, held the graduation ceremony of the Inclusive Policy Fellowship 2025 and launched its capstone publication, Small Ideas for Inclusive Futures.

The event gathered government representatives, think tank and civil society leaders, and senior researchers to mark the graduation of 28 young Cambodian researchers, recognising their transition from trainees to emerging policy contributors.

Over the past year, the fellows – including women, indigenous participants and advocates working on LGBTQ+ inclusion – completed intensive policy analysis training under the Australian Government-funded Ponlok Chomnes II programme. Their work produced 30 youth-led policy proposals addressing governance, equity and public policy challenges, compiled in the publication.

Australian Ambassador to Cambodia H.E. Derek Yip reaffirmed Australia’s continued support for Cambodia’s knowledge sector and stressed the importance of investing in youth skills, ideas and leadership to support the country’s long-term development.

Ambassador Yip noted that the fellowship aligns with Australia’s broader commitment to human capital development and highlighted fellows’ contributions on issues ranging from taxation and public spaces to digital income initiatives and gender-responsive infrastructure.

Ms. Dolgion Aldar, Programme Director of Ponlok Chomnes II, underscored the value of creating opportunities for young people to engage in policymaking and noted that many fellows have already contributed to public discussions and engagement with decision-makers.

The ceremony featured certificate presentations, the unveiling of the publication and presentations by selected fellows reflecting on their research and fellowship experiences.

The publication, Small Ideas for Inclusive Futures, presents policy ideas across six themes including equal citizenship, social protection, economic fairness, education, public health and human-centred urban development.

The Inclusive Policy Fellowship forms part of the Ponlok Chomnes II: Data and Dialogue for Development in Cambodia programme, implemented by The Asia Foundation with Australian Government support to strengthen collaboration among policymakers, researchers and communities while promoting inclusive research and dialogue.

By C. Nika