Rising fuel prices threaten school attendance for children on Cambodia's floating villages

Children living on the Tonle Sap lake must travel by boat to reach school, a routine made costly by a sharp rise in fuel prices following the 2026 Iran war. Gasoline has risen 45% and diesel more than 70% in a single month, the biggest jump since 2008, according to the World Bank. Families such as Soksan Set's depend on fishing for income and need several liters of gasoline daily; when prices climb, they either borrow money, cut back on essentials, or row to school, often sharing cramped vessels.

The expense also burdens school operations, which require fuel to bring teachers and supplies to remote classrooms. Although the Cambodian government has introduced discounts, tax cuts and zero customs duties on fuel imports, these measures do not fully offset the financial strain on the poorest households, threatening their right to education.