In many rural communities in Cambodia, domestic violence remains a serious concern, often rooted in limited awareness of gender equality and the harmful effects of violence in the home. In Takol Village, Snay Anchit Commune, Chum Kiri District, Kampot Province, Ms. Nut Sokhak , a 39-year-old mother and community leader, faced this challenge. As a representative of the women’s group supported by the Cambodian Health and Education for Community (CHEC) organization, she has witnessed both the struggles and the progress in her community. Before joining CHEC’s programs, Ms. Sokhak admits she did not fully understand what domestic violence was or how deeply it affected women, children, and family relationships. Like many others in her community, she lacked the knowledge and tools to address violence or to promote healthier alternatives. Through training sessions facilitated by CHEC, Ms. Sokhak gained critical knowledge on domestic violence prevention and gender awareness . Equipped with these skills, she took on an active role in sharing information with neighbors, especially those who had previously used violence at home. CHEC also supported her leadership by organizing monthly women’s group meetings , creating a safe space where participants could learn, exchange experiences, and strengthen their voices against domestic violence. Ms. Sokhak’s efforts, combined with CHEC’s ongoing support, have led to significant positive changes in her community: Families that once relied on violence are now adopting peaceful approaches. Community members recognize the negative impacts of domestic violence  more clearly. Understanding of gender roles and equality  has improved, encouraging mutual respect within households. The women’s group has become a trusted platform for ongoing education and support. “Now they have changed more, reduced domestic violence, and understand more about gender,” says Ms. Sokhak with pride. Ms. Sokhak emphasizes the importance of sustaining these efforts. She strongly urges CHEC to continue delivering training on gender and domestic violence prevention and to expand women’s groups in more villages. “I would like to request that CHEC continue to have training courses on the negative effects and continue to organize more women’s groups,” she shares. This case demonstrates how empowering local women leaders can spark real transformation. With continued investment in training, awareness, and community organizing, CHEC helps families replace violence with respect and equality—paving the way for stronger, healthier communities in Kampot Province and beyond.

Domestic violence has long been a hidden issue in rural Cambodian communities, fueled by a lack of awareness, silence, and deeply rooted social norms. In Roka Thmey Village, Sre Samrong Commune, Chum Kiri District, Kampot Province, Ms. Phang Nhanh , a mother of four, experienced the damaging effects of violence within the family. Like many households in her community, Ms. Nhanh’s family struggled with frequent conflicts. “At first, my family often fought because of a lack of understanding about domestic violence,” she recalls. The absence of dialogue and knowledge about healthier ways to resolve conflict allowed violence to persist, creating tension and unhappiness at home. Change began when a Cambodian Health and Education for Community (CHEC) awareness campaigns on domestic violence, reaching families in her commune. Building on this momentum, Cambodian Health and Education for Community (CHEC)  provided practical training courses on violence prevention. Ms. Nhanh took part in these sessions, where she learned about anger management, non-violent communication, and the harmful effects of abuse on family members. Empowered with this knowledge, she began applying these lessons within her own household and actively shared them with others in her community. The impact was transformative. Violence in her family reduced significantly, and home life improved: Ms. Nhanh learned to control her anger and avoid physical conflict. Her husband became calmer, more joyful, and engaged in positive family relationships. Her children grew up in a safer and more supportive environment. Community members also benefited, as she passed on knowledge and encouraged non-violent solutions. “Now there is no beating, and our family is happy,” says Ms. Nhanh. While progress has been made, Ms. Nhanh strongly believes there is more to be done. She urges CHEC to continue expanding awareness campaigns on domestic violence across her community and beyond. “I would like to request that CHEC continue to spread more information about the harmful effects of domestic violence,” she emphasizes, underscoring the need for ongoing education and support. Ms. Phang Nhanh’s story highlights the power of education and community engagement in breaking cycles of domestic violence. With the support of organizations like CHEC, families can replace conflict with peace, and communities can build a culture of respect, safety, and dignity for all.