USAID is deeply disappointed by the decision of Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to shut down the NDI's Cambodian operations, and require its foreign staff to leave the country. NDI has worked with Cambodia's political parties -- ruling and opposition alike -- with citizens, and with civil-society groups to support transparent governance and inclusive political participation for the past 25 years.

This work is strictly non-partisan and responds to the expressed needs of the parties themselves, including party development; candidate debates and multi-party dialogue; women and youth participation; and citizen-led efforts to observe the electoral process. We urge the Government of Cambodia to reverse its decision so that NDI can continue its work to ensure the 2018 National Elections give equal voice to all of Cambodia's people.