Cambodia
Decades of war, occupation, the Khmer Rouge's reign of terror and their mass murder of their own people have made Cambodia one of the poorest countries in the world. Despite considerable progress in the fight against poverty and underdevelopment, around 18% of the population still lives below the poverty line and more than 20% of people live in urban slums.
The past has left the majority of the population traumatized. Up to 2.2 million people died during the Khmer Rouge years - most of them violently. Coming to terms with the past is difficult, the danger of re-traumatization is great; people live with the traumatic memories like a dark shadow hanging over society. There is still fear of old Khmer Rouge connections, with perpetrators and survivors often living next door to each other. Forgetting and peace are sought in Buddhism. However, Buddhism does not promise forgiveness or healing, only self-redemption. Justice in Cambodia does not exist and is unimaginable for many.
Following the decline in international aid in recent years, the problems in the economy and society have become all the more apparent. Corruption, a lack of legal certainty and an inefficient economy have kept the country trapped in poverty to this day.
In this context, AVC has been investing in Christians in the country and, together with the Christians, in Cambodia itself since 1990. Despite the current moderate government, life remains a challenge for many people with regard to the Christian faith. Particularly in rural areas, Christians are often exposed to a strongly Buddhist society, which often leads to social isolation and discrimination. Apostasy from traditional Buddhism has to be prevented and faith in God renounced.
