Cambodian Community in Birmingham

Where they come from

Cambodia lies in South-East Asia between Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, and is home to Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Its people speak Khmer and most are Theravada Buddhists. Cambodians in Britain include families who came as refugees in the 1970s and 1980s, as well as students and professionals.

The community in numbers

The 2021 Census does not publish a separate Birmingham figure for the Cambodian community, which is counted within the census's figures for people born elsewhere in South-East Asia. By any measure it is one of the city's smaller communities, which makes the ties between its members all the closer.

Working for Birmingham

Cambodian residents work in healthcare, catering, retail, social care and business, and some have built careers in education and community work. Their story of rebuilding after the hardships of the past is one of resilience, and their children and grandchildren are making their mark in many professions.

Birmingham is one of the youngest and most diverse cities in Europe, and its progress has always depended on people who chose to make it home. Its hospitals, schools and universities, its building sites, workshops, warehouses and kitchens all rely on skills brought from around the world. The Cambodian community adds its own share to that effort, and takes pride in giving back to the city that welcomed it.

Culture and community life

Khmer New Year in April is the most important celebration, with games, dancing and visits to the temple. Apsara dance, inspired by the carvings of Angkor, is a proud tradition, and dishes such as fish amok and kuy teav noodle soup are shared with friends and family.

For anyone who wants to learn more, the best introduction is the simplest one: say hello. Birmingham's communities are at their best when they meet, share food and learn from one another, and the Cambodian community is a warm part of that everyday exchange.