Cambodian officials have informed the United Nations Human Rights Council that over 20,000 citizens are still unable to return to their homes following violent border confrontations with Thailand. Ke Sovann, Cambodia’s ambassador to the U.N. in Geneva, stated that the displaced population includes many women and children who have been affected by the fighting that occurred throughout 2025.

Beyond the displacement crisis, Cambodia reported that approximately 4,000 square kilometers of land across seven provinces are contaminated with unexploded ordnance. This figure includes 3,000 square kilometers affected by cluster munitions, which Phnom Penh alleges were deployed by Thai forces during the conflict. Ambassador Sovann emphasized that these remnants of war pose a persistent threat to civilians and prevent the safe resettlement of displaced communities.

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The border conflict, which resulted in over 100 deaths and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people on both sides, led to a ceasefire in December 2025. Tensions remain high as both nations continue to exchange accusations regarding the origin of the hostilities and the use of landmines. While Cambodia claims Thailand is occupying previously undisputed territory, Bangkok maintains that its current positions are within its own borders or represent frozen frontlines established by the ceasefire.

Prime Minister Hun Manet reiterated that Cambodia is open to diplomatic solutions and legal mechanisms to address the border issues. However, local observers such as Ny Sokha, president of the rights group Adhoc, expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of U.N. dialogue, suggesting that international judicial bodies like the International Court of Justice might be more appropriate. Legal experts note that pursuing such avenues remains difficult, as Thailand has not accepted the compulsory jurisdiction of the ICJ and has not ratified the Rome Statute for the International Criminal Court.

Source: CamboJA News