Commune-Level Consultation Forum Strengthens Legal Awareness and Dispute Resolution

On the morning of September 18, 2026, with the suported of ELCA Global Mission and Bread for the World, and implemented by the Lutheran Hope Cambodia Organization (LHCO) organized a Commune-Level Consultation Forum at the Khleang Meas Commune Hall in Bavel District, Battambang Province. The event was held in collaboration with the Legal Affairs Office of the Bavel District Administration and the Khleang Meas Commune Dispute Resolution Committee.

The consultation forum aimed to strengthen community members’ knowledge and understanding of the roles, responsibilities, and procedures of out-of-court dispute resolution mechanisms. It also provided an opportunity for community members to raise their questions, requests, concerns, and challenges directly with the Commune Dispute Resolution Committee, encouraging open dialogue and the pursuit of peaceful solutions.

The consultation forum also contributed to strengthening communication, trust, and cooperation between the Khleang Meas Commune Dispute Resolution Committee and community members, enabling people to better understand and access available mechanisms for resolving disputes within their communities.

In addition, the consultation forum raised public awareness of laws and rights relevant to daily life, including:

• Land laws and related legal rights
• Marriage and family law
• Laws on the prevention of domestic violence and protection of victims
• Children’s rights and women’s rights
• Mechanisms and procedures for out-of-court dispute resolution

Through this Commune-Level Consultation Forum, LHCO continues to support communities in strengthening legal awareness, understanding their rights and responsibilities, and engaging with local dispute resolution mechanisms to promote peaceful, accessible, and community-based solutions.