UNLOCKING POTENTIALS

 

The Economic Benefits of Legal Marriage Equality for Cambodia

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February 2026

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Future Forum and Rainbow Community Kampuchea (RoCK) officially launched their joint report, "Unlocking Potential: The Economic Benefits of Legal Marriage Equality for Cambodia". 

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Authored by Future Forum’s Lead Researcher Rupert Abbott and Junior Research Fellow Seaklay "Pi" Say, this collaborative study projects significant economic gains for Cambodia through the legalization of marriage equality. 

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The report highlights how legal recognition of marriage equality would not only affirm the dignity and equal rights of all families — it would also contribute to a more dynamic, inclusive, innovative, and resilient Cambodian economy.

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The potential economic benefits of marriage equality, drawing on evidence from global studies, Cambodian data, stakeholder interviews, and scenario modelling adapted from internationally recognised methodologies. The figures presented are illustrative and denote the possible magnitude and direction of economic impact.

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The potential economic benefits of marriage equality are across the following 5 key areas:

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1. BOOSTING TOURISM

2. ATTRACTING INVESTMENT & TALENT

3. GROWING THE WEDDING INDUSTRY

4. STRENGTHENING HOUSEHOLDS

5. ADVANCING HEALTH, PRODUCTIVITY AND BUSINESS PERFORMANCE

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