During the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea, Cambodian Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona called for sustained international monitoring of the Preah Vihear Temple. Representing Cambodia, Sackona emphasized that while emergency conservation measures are underway, the site remains vulnerable due to persistent security risks along the Cambodia-Thailand border.
The appeal follows significant damage sustained during armed clashes in 2025. According to the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, these incidents impacted the temple's integrity and authenticity, with over 560 locations within the complex suffering structural damage. In response, Cambodia has utilized the UNESCO Heritage Emergency Fund to clear artillery fragments, conduct 3D documentation, and stabilize vulnerable architectural elements.
Sackona highlighted that these preservation efforts are hindered by the continued presence of Thai forces near the temple and unilateral actions at other Khmer heritage sites. Cambodia has urged Thailand to adhere to international law and utilize the Cambodia-Thailand Joint Commission to resolve border disputes, referencing a Joint Declaration signed in December 2025.
The Cambodian delegation requested that the World Heritage Committee maintain its oversight of the site and continue supporting restoration initiatives. Reflecting on the situation, Sackona noted that the preservation of such monuments is intrinsically linked to broader regional stability. "The tragedy suffered by the Temple of Preah Vihear serves as a reminder that protecting World Heritage is inseparable from protecting peace, dialogue and the shared responsibility of the international community," she stated.
Source: Phnom Penh Post
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