Prayer Calendar Archive

by Pisey Ith, Cambodia national coordinator

In Cambodia today, many women carry heavy burdens – burdens born of abuse, of lost opportunity, of silenced voices. Yet hope also blooms when communities care, when knowledge spreads and when love holds those who feel most alone.

One woman in five between the ages of 15 and 49 has suffered emotional, physical or sexual violence in her lifetime. About 10% have experienced physical violence, and around 3% have suffered sexual violence since the age of 15.

Many girls and women in Cambodia not only endure gender-based violence in different forms, but they also face enormous barriers when seeking justice or support – whether through the formal courts or community-based solutions. Violence is not only in homes; it is found in workplaces, on the streets and increasingly online, leaving scars on bodies, minds and spirits.

This painful reality also limits a woman’s chance to grow, for when security is not guaranteed, education and opportunity are often pushed further away. Though many girls begin school, staying in school is difficult. In 2022–23, almost 9.5% of girls dropped out of primary school. Adult female literacy remains at only 79.8%, compared with 88.4% for males. Long distances to school, family responsibilities and cultural pressures often force girls to leave education behind. Without learning, many are driven into early marriage and cycles of poverty.

Even in the midst of deep suffering, light can still shine. Women of Hope walks alongside the women of Cambodia with compassion and commitment through radio and digital broadcasts that teach them how to protect themselves, recognize danger and find help. These programs are more than information; they are lifelines that lead women to the true source of hope and healing – a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the one who brings light into the darkest places.

Women of Hope shares the good news of Jesus, reminding women that they are never beyond his love or reach. As they learn to know the Savior, who restores broken hearts and gives new life, they begin to see their worth, find courage to face pain and experience lasting transformation. Through prayer, encouragement and the love of Jesus, women in Cambodia discover strength to rise again – because they are valued, loved and never alone.