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Case Studies
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Talk Show Sensation - talking about sex in Cambodia

Radio talk show host Cambodia Heng Sokchannaroath never tires of talking about sex, in graphic detail. But that’s healthy, not only for this Cambodian teen, but her entire country.

Naroath, as she is known to radio fans, hosts a weekly show that targets teens. Talk, not surprisingly, focuses on youth obsessions. So, besides computer experts advising on the best game systems, topics have ranged from “Getting Love from the Internet” to “Can HIV and AIDS Transmit Through Manicure?”

Controversial chat choices for a high school student who, at 16, is Cambodia’s youngest radio host. But youth is an asset in a country where 60 percent of the population is under 25 years of age. Previous hosts were 24 and 20 years old. Naroath, a volunteer from a women’s reproductive health group, was a guest on one show, but her energy – and ability to stimulate discussion – won her the slot.

“My life has changed,” says Naroath, in purple Mickey Mouse T-shirt, looking more like a typical teen than talk-show sensation. “People in the market ask me questions. I like it. The radio really makes it possible to help people.”

Health on the airwaves - DFID funded project reducing the stigma of HIV.

The BBC World Service Trust launched its Cambodia multi-media campaign in 2003. Funded entirely by DFID, the project targets some of the nation's greatest health threats: HIV and AIDS; and maternal and child health.

There is evidence that women’s knowledge and attitude about sexual health and its relationship to condom use improved significantly. In addition, the levels of personal compassion to family members potentially living with HIV have increased, specifically in terms of financial support and inviting them into their house. Also, significantly more people surveyed also agreed that HIV positive nurses, people serving and sharing food should be able to continue to do. This suggests that the stigma of HIV has reduced because of the project’s messages.

BBC World Trust in Cambodia

DFID in Cambodia

DFID’s programme in Cambodia supports improved access to health services and information, including a multi sectoral response to HIV and AIDS.
DFID supports a £7.1 million programme to Population Services International for the social marketing of condoms to prevent the spread of HIV which runs from 2001 to 2007.
DFID has committed £15.8 million from 2003 to 2008 to a variety of HIV-AIDS programmes in Cambodia to support the government organisations responsible for providing services and information under its ‘Strengthening Cambodia’s Response to HIV/AIDS’ programme. Support is intended to improve prevention, treatment and care.

Last updated 28 November 2006