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For the majority of CSCN locations, migration is the second most frequent answer, with
the exceptions being Neak Loeung and Poipet.
From the questionnaire survey results it thus appears that poverty is likely to have an
effect on migration; the question is how this relates to the Cambodian street children/
youth population. Two conflicting perspectives can be discussed in this regard. Does
poverty provide the incentive for Cambodian street children/youth (alone or with their
family) to migrate either as a strategy for livelihood diversification or out of destitution?
Or, does poverty reduce the ability to migrate because the transfer costs involved (both
in terms of financial and social costs) are too high? Both questions can be applied to
each of the CSCN survey locations and does to certain extent provide an answer to
some of the analytical disparities unfolded in this profile. For example, reflecting on the
second question explains why the migration pattern of Cambodian street children/youth
for the most part only covers short-range distances.
Another interesting factor to elaborate on within the frame of the poverty/migration theme
is the evictions of poor Cambodians in both urban and rural areas. In consequence
of this situation these families can be said to be forced migrants. Phnom Penh and
Sihanoukville in particular have been affected by such evictions.
Theme III: Educational Status – Enrolment versus Completion Rates
The results of the CSCN questionnaire survey show that the Cambodian street children/
youth generally have less access to education on both primary and secondary level
when compared to the national average. There is a general tendency that street children/
youth are excluded from the educational system. Despite the fact that the net enrolment
rates in primary school all show varying degrees of improvement, almost all CSCN
locations are below the national average (Neak Loeung being the only exception).
However, compared to last year’s results, there has been a general increase in the
percentage of street children/youth enrolling in primary school. This might be a reflection
of the pressure placed on the Cambodian Government as to make progress towards
achieving the UN MDG on universal primary education.
CSCN
CSCN Street Children Profile 2009
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