Cambodia: BWTUC holds 4th Congress

Last Sunday, 7 November, the BWI-affiliated Building and Woodworkers’ Trade Union Federation of Cambodia (BWTUC) held its 4^th National Congress in the country’s province of Kampot. More than 35 delegates participated in the event amidst the continuing restrictions against in-person gatherings in the country. 

The Congress adopted the federation’s report and its plans for the future. BWTUC President Sok Kin underlined the importance of consolidating the union by enhancing its organising and campaign work in improving the lives of workers.

Meanwhile, Chhlonh Sou, BWTUC Vice President, challenged the union’s affiliates to strengthen their capacity to be independent by improving their dues contribution to the federation. 

The federation’s office bearers for the next four years were also elected in the said Congress. Sok Kin was re-elected President, together with Chhlonh Sou and Yan Thy as Vice President and Secretary General respectively; and women leader Tith Sokun as Second Vice President. Four Board Members, led by a union leader from the K-Cement Factory, were also elected by the Congress. 

BWI Asia Pacific Regional Representative Apolinar Tolentino led the Congress’ guests in expressing their solidarity messages to BWTUC. He traced the history of BWTUC’s founding and its close collaboration with BWI since then. He also stressed the need for BWTUC to be ready to confront workers’ issues, not only in Cambodia, but also regionally and globally.  

BWTUC is Cambodia’s biggest construction workers’ trade union representing more than 10,000 members in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kampot and Sihanouk.