Background

BUDDHISM FOR DEVELOPMENT (BFD) is a non-government organization founded on May 1, 1990. A group of monks resident in Site 2 Refugee Camp on Thai-Khmer border, and led by Indapanno Bhikkhu Heng Monychenda, saw the value of Buddhism as a tool for peace restoration, economic and social development, human rights recovery and democratic building, and aiming to sustain the balance of individual, society and the nature. In 1992, BFD was established at Watt Anlongvil, Anlongvil Commune, Sangker District, Battambang province. BFD spread its scope of projects throughout the North-west of Cambodia including Banteay Meanchey in 1994, Oddor Meanchey in 2001, Battambang in 2002, and Pailin, Siemreap, Kampong Thom, and Preah Vihear Province in 2003. Buddhism for Development envisions an educated, democratic society, free from poverty and preventable illnesses, law abiding, and respectful of human rights and the environment and a moral society with respect for Buddhism and Cambodian culture and traditions whilst being aware of the threats and opportunities presented by globalization. In 2015, BFD will celebrate 25 years of continuous engagement with the Cambodia community.

Mission

Buddhism for Development encourages, advises and provides services, support and training to Cambodians to participate in the sustainable socio-economic development of their own communities.

Vision

Buddhism For Development envisions: an educated, democratic society, free from poverty and preventable illnesses, law abiding, and respectful of human rights; a moral society with respect for Buddhism and Cambodian culture and traditions; a society conscious of its environment and aware of the choices presented by development and globalization.