Climate change poses a grave threat to our planet, potentially leading to a catastrophic future if left unchecked. Rising global temperatures can result in more frequent and severe natural disasters such as hurricanes, droughts, floods, and wildfires. These events can devastate communities, destroy habitats, and threaten human lives, wildlife, and ecosystems.
In addition, population dislocation, an increase in the spread of illnesses, a shortage of food and water, and unstable economies can all result from climate change. The effects are extensive and potentially worsen already-existing socioeconomic inequities and inequality.
For generations, the people living around the Tonle Sap Lake have relied on its seasonal floods to nourish the land, support fisheries, and maintain agricultural cycles. The lake’s unique ecosystem has provided food, water, and income, making it central to the cultural and economic fabric of the region. In Kampong Chhnang, it serves as a major source of fish and provides a primary source of protein and income for many families.
However, economic constraints, social obstacles, and environmental changes will all contribute to an unknown future for the local population there. Threats include overfishing, deforestation, pollution, and climate change plaguing the Tonle Sap Lake, which is valued for its biodiversity and significance to the livelihoods of the surrounding community.
Le Yang Kor, a 43-year-old man, lives in Chhnuk Trou Village, Kampong Chhnang, an area that floods every half a year. He says: ‘Since I was a young child, I have resided here. I can now see how my village's environment has altered, with strong storms and heavy rain during the rainy season and extreme heat and dryness during the dry season.’
The community's overall well-being as well as its availability of food, water, and revenue sources are directly impacted by these environmental stressors. Vietnamese woman Wang Thi Yong, 29, who lives in Village 7, Sangkat Khsam, Kampong Chhnang, stated, 'I see that there are fewer and fewer fish every day, which makes it hard for the villagers, most of whom are fishermen, in terms of daily income.' Variations in water levels, shifts in fish populations, and the destruction of natural ecosystems can upend customs and make it harder for locals to survive.
In general, ethnic Vietnamese communities in Cambodia often face a grave crisis of statelessness. Many have lived in the country for generations, yet their roots and historical ties are often disregarded. They lack basic legal documents, such as birth certificates and citizenship, which severely limit their access to essential services like education, healthcare, and employment. Discrimination, prejudice, and social exclusion further marginalize them, hindering their ability to participate fully in Cambodian society.
The issues encountered by all of the local population are further exacerbated by economic instability, restricted employment possibilities, and limited access to healthcare and education. Women, children, and indigenous people are among the vulnerable groups that these problems disproportionately affect.
Him Srey Pich, a 17-year-old salesperson in Chroy village, Kampong Chhnang province, expressed concern about the declining fish population, decreased crop productivity and harvest prices, and erratic weather patterns.
The community around the Tonle Sap has hope for a more resilient and sustainable future despite these obstacles. In addition, Srey Pich stated that 'NGOs and the next generation should receive training on riverine fisheries, biodiversity conservation, and Tonle Sap environment preservation.' Wang Thi Yong mentioned that 'government agencies should take strict action against illegal individuals in illegal fishing and illegal deforestation.'
Locals can be empowered, and their way of life protected through initiatives that support capacity-building, community-based tourism, sustainable fishing methods, and ecosystem conservation. Collaboration amongst government agencies, businesses, non-profits, and people can help Kampong Thom community members work toward a more secure and prosperous future.
It is crucial to pay attention to the opinions and requirements of the local populace, assist them in becoming more resilient and adaptive, and make sure that their rights and welfare are prioritized during all decision-making processes. By working together, we can make the community that lives next to the Tonle Sap more predictable and hopeful about the future.
***Responses in this article originate from beneficiaries of a project run by Khmer Community Development (KCD), an NGO dedicated to improving the quality of life of the Khmer and Vietnamese people in Cambodia, especially in the provinces bordering Vietnam. The organization educates and empowers local communities to tackle environmental, health and nutrition issues.
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