As political impasse continues, some donors hold on to funding

An increasing number of NGOs in Cambodia are facing the prospect of budget cuts, with money from foreign donors decreasing as a political deadlock continues. Cambodia’s robust civil society relies on donor countries, but some have postponed funding while the country’s two rival political parties remain at an impasse over election reform, following polls last year the opposition says was marred by fraud. … “Our development partners are reluctant to give packages of money to some NGOs, as they are waiting to see political developments in Cambodia,” said Soeung Saroeun, executive director at the Cooperation Committee for Cambodia. … Last year, Cambodian NGOs needed up to $700 million in funding to run their projects, according to CCC statistics. Lao Mong Hay, an independent political analyst, said he doubted foreign donors would cut or reduce money in the long run. “I don’t think they are going to do that, because NGOs have been working to help people and strengthen democracy in Cambodia,” he said. …

 Suy Heimkhemra
http://www.voacambodia.com/content/as-political-impasse-continues-some-donors-hold-on-to-funding/1864701.html