To address gender-based violence (GBV) in Cambodia, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in collaboration with the Wesley Zaidan Foundation, the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, and Child Helpline Cambodia (CHC), has introduced the “GBV Safe App – (Our Safety App).” Officially launching on November 25, this app aims to empower women and girls facing harassment, abuse, and violence, aligning with the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

Gender-based violence remains a critical issue in Cambodia, where 30 percent of women have endured intimate partner violence in their lifetime. For female factory workers, who often face increased risks in their workplaces, accessing support has been challenging; only 24 percent of survivors can currently access formal help. The app addresses these gaps by offering a safe, confidential, and accessible resource for women to connect with life-saving services.

The GBV Safe App provides key features, including direct links to legal assistance, educational resources on GBV, and a secure platform where women can seek immediate help. Designed to serve high-risk populations like students, factory workers, and urban communities, it aims to provide essential support and knowledge on recognizing and responding to harassment and violence.

“This innovative digital technology platform will protect vulnerable women and girls from all forms of violence in Cambodia,” said Golden Mulilo, UNFPA’s representative in Cambodia, emphasizing the priority placed on women’s safety and autonomy. Wesley Zaidan Foundation's Hikari Kokai highlighted the broader empowerment goal, aiming to promote women’s confidence and freedom from fear.

The app’s is available now for Android users on Google Play, with iOS availability anticipated soon. A broad awareness campaign accompanies the launch, leveraging social media to reach over two million people and encourage downloads, especially targeting students and factory workers.