(Geneva): Cambodia on Wednesday (Sep. 16) raised concerns over the humanitarian impact of the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict at the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, highlighting the continued displacement of more than 20,000 Cambodians and new contamination from cluster munitions, according to Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Cambodia to the UN Office at Geneva.

Cambodian Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Geneva Ke Sovann delivered Cambodia’s statement under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue on High Commissioner’s Analytical Report on the Human Rights of Women and Children in Conflict and Post-Conflict Situation.

In his statement, the ambassador highlighted the devastating impact of armed conflict on civilians, particularly women and children, including the continued displacement of more than 20,000 Cambodians and new contamination from cluster munitions as a result of the Cambodia–Thailand border conflict. He called for full respect for international law, humanitarian and human rights law to protect civilians from the consequences of the conflict.

Ambassador Ke Sovann also took the floor to reject the unfounded allegations by Thailand and clarify the issues concerning the initiation of hostilities, landmines, damage to cultural heritage (particularly Preah Vihear Temple), documentation of displacement and damages to civilian infrastructure by the United Nations, and Thai armed forces’ unlawful actions in areas of Cambodian territory under its illegal occupation.
=FRESH NEWS