CDPO is a movement of Cambodians with disabilities and was established in September 1994. CDPO is a membership-based, non-governmental organization, which legitimately claims to be the organization representing disabled people in Cambodia. It exists to develop networks of people with disabilities (PWDs) so as to support, protect, serve and promote their rights, achievement, and interests, in order to bring about their fuller participation and equality in society. Its role is not to provide services or material benefits to disabled people, but rather to represent them and advocate for their interests as well as empower them by building their own awareness and capacity. This role makes it very unique in Cambodia. CDPO conduct many activities at grassroots level as well as with national and international level for the sake of people with disabilities in Cambodia. In 2001 CDPO singed MOU with MOSAVY outlining its role and its responsibilities to the people of Cambodia.

Over one thousand PWDs are registered as members of CDPO and they form what is called the General Assembly. The authority of the General Assembly of the membership of CDPO is delegated to the Board of Governors of CDPO for the efficient running of the organization. The Board of Governors of CDPO is accountable only to a General Assembly of CDPO, and will appoint an Executive Director to conduct the business of the organization who is accountable to the Board for the efficient running of the organization.

From 2001 to late 2004 CDPO has been reforming its activities and structure through a Reform Committee, to ensure CDPO has a clear vision, mandate and operational structure. From Aug 2003 in particular, through internal meetings and in conjunction with Action on Disability & Development [ADD] and Cambodia Trust, agreement has been reached and actions taken which have enabled CDPO to strengthen its Governing Board.