(Phnom Penh): Senior Minister Keo Remy, President of the Cambodia Human Rights Committee (CHRC), briefed Vladanka Andreeva, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cambodia, on the situation along the Cambodia–Thailand border, raising concerns over alleged violations of international law, particularly international human rights law and international humanitarian law.

The briefing took place during a working meeting on the afternoon of 12 March 2026.

According to a press release, the senior minister outlined several actions allegedly committed by Thai authorities against Cambodia. These included discrimination and violence against Cambodian migrant workers, sexual violence against Cambodian female workers by Thai soldiers, and the use of high-decibel noise and other disturbing sounds that have caused psychological distress among residents in border areas.

He also reported alleged indiscriminate attacks involving heavy weapons, cluster bombs, toxic smoke, and fighter aircraft such as F-16, Gripen, and T-50 jets.

The reported incidents have caused damage to both private and public property, including Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The report also cited looting of Cambodian citizens’ property by Thai troops and attempts to establish new positions through barbed wire installations, container deployments, demolition of homes, and construction of infrastructure in disputed areas. As a result, around 40,000 residents have been unable to safely return to their homes.

Senior Minister Keo Remy emphasized that the Royal Government of Cambodia continues to support and cooperate with United Nations representation in Cambodia despite the current challenges facing the global order. He reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to patience and the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law and established legal mechanisms, while continuing to protect the rights, safety, and dignity of affected citizens.

Vladanka Andreeva expressed appreciation for the Cambodian government and the CHRC’s cooperation with UN mechanisms in promoting and protecting human rights, including attention to the LGBTQIA+ community.

She also voiced concern over the conflict along the Cambodia–Thailand border in 2025, which affected migrant workers and residents in the area.

At the same time, she noted that conflicts often have severe consequences for people’s lives and social development, stressing the need to preserve peace and respect international law. She also highlighted the importance of civic space and the role of civil society organizations in promoting human rights and social development, particularly at a time when refugees require greater protection and support.

In response, Senior Minister Keo Remy reaffirmed that the Royal Government of Cambodia values cooperation with civil society organizations and maintains an open civic space to encourage broad participation in promoting human rights.
=FRESH NEWS