Over 6,000 rural Cambodians attended innovative mobile screening events to learn about their legal rights and responsibilities. The films featured at the events focused on topics that are important to local Cambodians, such as domestic violence, rape, land conflict, drug use and rehabilitation and attempted murder. For many of the audience members in the more rural areas, this was the first time they had an opportunity to learn about legal rights, obligations, and justice.
The screenings were held in 4 provinces as part of a series of 12 roadshows organized by EWMI and its grantee, Action IEC, as part of the “Building Foundations for Justice” project. EWMI’s project partner, International Bridges to Justice, also provided coordination and assistance with the road show set-ups. Action IEC succeeded in making the roadshows culturally appropriate and engaging, with participants generally enjoying the events and asking plenty of questions during the shows, which were answered on the spot by IBJ. EWMI produced and printed educational materials for distribution during the road shows so that participants could have something to take home with them for reference and to share with family and friends. These materials include tee-shirts with the message “Understanding rights and obligations means justice for all,” as well as two types of leaflets and a story book about the land law. Overall the comprehensive awareness campaign shared knowledge in a meaningful way about how Cambodians can protect their rights and carry out their civic responsibilities.
Funded by the EU, Building Foundations for Justice, is implemented by EWMI and its partners, International Bridges to Justice, Samreth Law Group and Vishnu Law Group. The project aims to enhance the delivery of justice and rule of law in Cambodia at the local level by building and strengthening three of the key foundations of an effective justice sector: trained and accountable justice officials, effective legal aid providers, and citizens who are knowledgeable of their rights and responsibilities. These roadshows became a key component of the project by assisting in spreading knowledge and empowering citizens in order to build an understanding of the law and the impact it can have on Cambodians’ livelihoods.