PHNOM PENH, Dec. 23 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia on Monday launched the guidelines on setting up the One-Stop Service Units (OSSUs) for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), said a joint press release.
The initiative aimed to strengthen multisectoral response and support services for women and girls affected by all forms of GBV across the Southeast Asian country, the press release said.
The OSSUs provided a safe space for women who experience violence by offering all necessary services -- medical care, legal support, psychological help, and safety -- under one roof, it added.
"This approach ensures that survivors receive the help they need in a safe, confidential, and coordinated manner, making it easier for them to access necessary services and begin their healing journey," the statement said.
The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be disseminated to all relevant ministries, institutions, civil society organizations, and the 25 provincial governors to guide the implementation and operation of OSSUs nationwide.
Key features of the OSSU SOP include the process on how to set up the OSSU in the hospital and clear guidelines for the roles and responsibilities of different agencies involved in OSSU service provision, among others.
Ing Kantha Phavi, minister of women's affairs, said the official launch of the guidelines signified a crucial step in ensuring standardized, effective, and coordinated support for GBV survivors throughout the kingdom.
Sandra Bernklau, United Nations Population Fund representative to Cambodia, said the OSSU model by having all support under one roof was a critical step to improving access to quality services for those experiencing violence. ■