Leadership as a Mirror Reflecting Social Problems — and the Light of Solutions
Pa Chandaren is president of the Cambodian Institute for Democracy. FB
#opinion
Through research, observation of social change, and leadership development work, I have come to understand more clearly that “leadership” is not merely a management theory within institutions. Rather, it is the most critical discipline shaping the destiny of society.
When we examine social problems through the lens of leadership, we stop seeing them as random events or individual failures. Instead, we recognise them as systemic crises that demand solutions grounded in wisdom and a high sense of responsibility. As someone working to promote democracy and leadership, I would like to reflect on three key perspectives:
1. The well-being of the nation depends on the quality of leadership
We often view social problems — such as corruption, injustice, social fragmentation or moral decline — as isolated issues. In reality, these problems directly reflect a “leadership void”. History has repeatedly shown that the rise or decline of nations and institutions depends on the quality of leadership.
When a “leader” merely uses their position as a “boss” to expand power and serve personal interests, a culture of injustice takes root. Genuine leadership, by contrast, cultivates a culture of accountability, which is the most effective remedy for society’s deepest maladies and the foundation for rebuilding trust.
2. Solutions lie in building people, not merely creating or tightening laws
While laws are essential tools for maintaining order, laws alone cannot resolve social problems without a shift in mindset. This shift is not temporary; it is a transformation of belief systems and the way we see the world.
In the context of leadership, this includes three fundamental shifts:
1) From compliance to commitment
Under old thinking, people act out of fear of laws or punishment. Leadership nurtures conscience, encouraging people to do what is right voluntarily — even when no one is watching and no rule compels them.
2) From ego-centric to eco-centric thinking
Traditional thinking emphasises competition, status, and individual advancement. A new mindset recognises oneself as part of a broader social ecosystem. When institutions or society collapse, individuals cannot thrive in peace either.
3) From problem-oriented to solution-oriented thinking
Rather than spending time assigning blame or criticising circumstances, the new mindset asks: “What can I do to improve this situation?” This is a shift from a victim mindset to an owner mindset in addressing social problems.
When mindsets change, actions change. When actions change, social outcomes change. This is the inner-rooted power of leadership.
3. Leadership drives people to do the right things
Leadership is the force that motivates people to “do the right things”, rather than merely “doing things right” to conceal mistakes.
We must remember that great leadership is not measured by the height of the leader’s position, but by the elevation of citizens’ values, dignity and quality of life. This is the essence of good governance and ethical leadership.
4. The power of role models and influence in the Cambodian social context
In Cambodian society, which places high value on hierarchy and respect for authority, the power of role models is especially strong. People tend to observe and follow the behaviour of leaders.
When leaders demonstrate integrity, justice and self-sacrifice, society follows with trust and hope. Positive role models are like sunlight shining upon the earth: they do not merely illuminate the path through darkness, but also provide warmth and energy, allowing the seeds of goodness and morality within people’s hearts to grow and flourish once again.
A closing reflection
I firmly believe that social problems are not an unchangeable curse. Social transformation begins with each individual’s decision to act as a leader who dares to do what is right.
To ensure lasting change, investing in education and leadership development for Cambodian youth must be a top priority. Young people must receive education that goes beyond technical knowledge to build character, conscience and ethical leadership — so they can become strong pillars for the nation.
Planting seeds of hope through service-oriented, responsible young leaders is the only way to ensure that the solutions we seek today will shine ever more brightly and take deep root in our society’s future. By strengthening ethical leadership — from individuals and families to national institutions — we can build a society that is just, peaceful, and sustainably developed for generations to come.
Pa Chandaren is president of the Cambodian Institute for Democracy. The views and opinions expressed are his own.
-Phnom Penh Post-
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