Cambodia Launches ‘Destination Eco-Talents’ to Lead Regional Shift Toward Sustainable Tourism
Cambodia is positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainable tourism with the official launch of Destination Eco-Talents (DET), a flagship initiative of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF), unveiled during a major workshop in Siem Reap from March 26 to 28, 2025.
The three-day event brought together nearly 80 tourism stakeholders from across the Mekong region—including Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand—to develop a shared vision for eco-tourism that empowers communities and preserves cultural heritage.
Siem Reap, home to Angkor Wat and a gateway for millions of international visitors, has been chosen as the pilot site for the DET programme. Cambodia’s selection reflects its growing reputation as a destination for mindful travel and its potential to model sustainable practices for the rest of the Francophone world. According to Edgar Doerig, OIF’s Asia-Pacific representative, “Cambodia holds a strategic role as a pilot and future model for the DET initiative.”
What the DET Project Means for Cambodia
The Destination Eco-Talents initiative aims to strengthen local capacities through vocational training, create inclusive tourism opportunities, and support environmental and cultural preservation. It focuses especially on empowering women, youth, and rural communities—groups often left behind in traditional tourism models.
His Excellency Dr Thok Sokhom, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Tourism, called the workshop “a crucial step in defining a roadmap for sustainable tourism development.” He noted that the project aligns with Cambodia’s national vision to become a high-income country by 2050 and supports the government’s commitment to green tourism, cultural preservation, and human capital investment.
Cambodian tourism consultant Marta Saya highlighted the success of community-based ecotourism in places like Koh Trong, where ecotourism has significantly boosted household incomes, reduced dependence on seasonal agriculture, and improved local infrastructure. “Investing in eco-talent is not just about developing skills,” she said, “but about training a generation of leaders who see sustainable development as both a livelihood and a legacy.”
A Regional and Inclusive Vision
The DET project is also a vehicle for regional cooperation, linking the tourism sectors of Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam with a shared focus on sustainability. Speakers at the workshop presented strategies for balancing growth with conservation, introducing smart tourism technologies, and supporting local communities through inclusive models.
Laos, for example, emphasized its desire to avoid mass tourism and protect natural sites, while Vietnam presented green tourism strategies supported by waste reduction, digital platforms, and wildlife protection initiatives.
The Greater Mekong Subregion tourism strategy was also highlighted, with an emphasis on connectivity, shared standards, and the “Six Countries, One Destination” campaign to promote regional experiences.
Training the Future of Tourism
A key takeaway from the workshop was the urgent need for training and education. Cambodia’s hospitality sector continues to face a shortage of skilled workers post-pandemic. Representatives from vocational institutions such as the Paul Dubrule School and Sala Baï Hotel School shared insights into training programs that are already helping prepare the next generation of tourism professionals, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds.
According to the French Development Agency, nearly €75 million has already been invested in Cambodia’s vocational training sector since 2012, with new schools now operating in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.
A Model for Sustainable Development
The DET initiative represents a larger effort by the Francophonie to promote sustainable tourism as a catalyst for socio-economic development, environmental stewardship, and cultural exchange. As Cambodia prepares to host the World Francophonie Summit in 2026, its role in this initiative reflects growing recognition of the country’s leadership in responsible tourism.
The event, organized by All Dreams Cambodia and supported by carbon offsetting measures, also underscores a commitment to climate-conscious development. A total of 36 tonnes of CO2 emissions from the event were offset, with credits going toward local sustainability projects.With Siem Reap at its center, Destination Eco-Talents signals a bold new chapter in Cambodia’s tourism journey—one focused on sustainability, inclusion, and long-term community impact.
 | Cambodia |
 | https://www.cambodialifestyle.com |
 | +855 9 678 01791 |
Popular Posts
Recent Posts
- Cambodia Launches ‘Destination Eco-Talents’ to Lead Regional Shift Toward Sustainable Tourism
- InterNations Networking Event at Hotel KVL: A Premier Phnom Penh Experience
- Paul Oakenfold Makes Historic Debut in Cambodia with Exclusive Shows in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
- Understanding the Impact of Global Tariffs on Cambodia: Stay Ahead of the Game
Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
