Empowering Women Forest Defenders in Cambodia

Mr. Kho lives with his family near a protect forest area. He volunteers to help protect the forest from illegal loggers. He and the other forest protects started to studying nonviolence and conflict resolution  with Peace Bridges. During the longterm trainings, he started to reflect on his relationship to his family.

“I used to smoke and drink a lot of alcohol,” said Mr. Kho. A lot of his money was spent on alcohol, which caused conflicts in his family. When he studied with Peace Bridges, Mr. Kho realized that his own habits were preventing his family from becoming financially stable.

“I realized that my family income was low because I never prioritized my family. I decided to cut back on my drinking and smoking so that I can save money.” Now Mr. Kho has saved enough to buy a small rice mill, water pump, motorbike, and he even built a new home for his family. He built a bathroom for his family, something they never had before.

“I am able to help my family and fellow forest protectors to resolve their conflicts, especially with local authorities and the illegal loggers. People respect me for this. I’m also pleased that I have achieved a better life than before.

“Nowadays, my life is easier and my family is doing well. We have a cashew farm and raise cows. I am more helpful around the house and I don’t drink and smoke anymore.”