WHO: Climate Change and Health Associate – Phnom Penh

Organization Mission

The World Health Organization (WHO) was established on 7 April 1948 as the directing and coordinating authority in global public health within the United Nations system. Working at three levels in the Organization (global, regional, and country), more than 7000 WHO staff worldwide collaborate with the governments of 194 Member States and other partners to achieve the WHO founding vision of the attainment of the highest possible level of health by all people. The WHO Western Pacific Region is home to more than one-quarter of the world’s population, stretching over more than one-third of the distance around the globe. In all, more than 600 WHO staff work in 15 country offices and the Regional Office in Manila, Philippines, to support Member States in achieving better health outcomes for the Region’s nearly 1.9 billion people in 37 countries and areas. The WHO Cambodia Representative Office works closely with the Royal Government of Cambodia, international partners, and nongovernmental organizations to improve the health and well-being of the Cambodian people. In a rapidly developing country such as Cambodia, WHO provides technical expertise in public health and support to the Government to improve the health of all Cambodians, particularly the impoverished and vulnerable communities, through strengthening public health programmes and health systems.

Context

Cambodia is assessed as one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world for climate change impacts. It is particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall, flooding, landslides, sea-level rise, extreme heat, droughts, and wildfires. These hazards significantly impact public health, contributing to respiratory issues, heat-related illnesses, mental health risks, and increased risks of outbreaks and transmission of waterborne and vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue.

A Climate Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment (NCCH V&A) was conducted between September and November 2019 identifying several climate risk vulnerabilities.

The Ministry of Health, working with the Global Environment Facility, UNDP and WHO, is part of the “Building Resilience of Health Systems in Asian Least Developed Countries to Climate Change” project along with Korea DPR, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam from 2019-2023. This project aimed at strengthening health systems climate resilience, including dengue surveillance, a climate change and health curriculum, improving WASH in the province of Ratanakiri.

In 2024, WHO Cambodia, in collaboration with the Cambodian government, conducted a prioritization exercise that identified climate-resilience as a key priority. The Cambodia Climate Change Strategic Plan (CCCSP) 2014-2023, the country’s first National Adaptation Plan identified three priorities: promoting climate resilience via renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing vulnerability of sectors, regions, genders, and health.

The new CCCSP 2024-2033 focuses on adaptation measures, including expanding compliance with the WHO Guidance for Climate-Resilient and Environmentally Sustainable Health Care Facilities (CRESHCF) and strengthening climate-informed early-warning systems. The Ministry of Health’s Technical Working Group on Climate Change and Health will update its National Climate Change Action Plan for Public Health (NCCAPPH) (2020-2024) with a focus on CRESHCF, with WHO providing technical support.

Key Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Team Leader of Non-communicable Diseases and Health throughout the Life Course, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:

1. Support the mapping of climate change and health-related activities carried out in Cambodia (since 2019 to present) against the four pillars of the WHO Guidance for Climate-Resilient and Environmentally Sustainable Health Care Facilities.
2. Support the implementation of the next iteration of the National Climate Change Action Plan for Public Health, which is expected to be endorsed in 2026.
3. Support the preparations for developing a multi-hazard response plan intersecting climate change and health.
4. Perform other duties as requested by the WHO Cambodia Country Office. Participate in relevant meetings, workshops, and conferences related to climate change and health. Support the communication related to WHO’s mandate on climate change and health. Assist in drafting presentations and reports on climate-health initiatives.

Required Skills and Experience

Experience of up to three years in technical public health writing and desk-based research.

Understanding of UN agencies and national authorities in the areas of climate change adaptation and climate resilience.

Core Competencies

☒ Adaptability and Flexibility
☒ Commitment and Motivation
☒ Communication
☒ Planning and Organizing

Living Conditions

Living in Cambodia offers a rich and rewarding experience, blending traditional culture with modern conveniences. The cost of living is relatively affordable compared to many Western countries, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and professionals. Khmer is the official language, but English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and among professionals, facilitating communication for non-Khmer speakers.

Cambodia”s healthcare system comprises both public and private facilities. While major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have well-equipped hospitals and clinics, access to quality medical services in rural areas can be limited.

Getting around Cambodia is convenient, with diverse transportation options such as taxis, tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and ride-hailing services readily available in urban centers. While Cambodia is generally a safe country, it is still important to remain cautious and observe basic safety practices, particularly when navigating unfamiliar areas.

Cambodia also boasts a vibrant expatriate community, especially in major cities, providing newcomers with ample opportunities to connect, network, and share experiences. Numerous social clubs, sports groups, and cultural organizations offer ways to engage with both locals and expats, fostering a sense of community.

In recent years, Cambodia has seen the emergence of numerous international brands, with modern shopping malls and supermarkets offering a wide range of products and services. From global fashion to entertainment, Cambodia’s urban centers continue to expand, providing both locals and expatriates with a mix of traditional markets and contemporary retail experiences.