Cost Benefit Analysis of Childcare Models in Cambodia

This report presents a social and economic cost benefit analysis of government and employer-supported childcare models in Cambodia. It outlines the critical role of women in the Cambodian economy, particularly in the textile and garment sectors, while highlighting their disproportionate burden of unpaid domestic and care work. The analysis reveals that accessible and affordable childcare can enhance women's workforce participation and improve child development outcomes. The report compares three childcare delivery models: employer-supported childcare, publicly provided community childcare centers, and voucher-supported access to private childcare providers. Each model's fiscal and social returns are evaluated over a ten-year horizon, revealing varying benefits and costs. The findings suggest that while employer-supported childcare offers strong fiscal benefits for the government, it poses financial challenges for employers. The report emphasizes the need for a mix of childcare services to meet the needs of working parents and outlines a phased approach for implementing effective childcare policies in Cambodia.