Cambodia Reports No Progress on Thai Border Dispute, Meets UN Human Rights Envoy

Cambodia's government announced that border demarcation and marking work with Thailand has been completely halted due to incursions by Thai armed forces. This was revealed during a press briefing by the government spokesperson on August 2, 2026. According to the government spokesperson, the joint Cambodian-Thai survey team's efforts to measure and mark the border have been entirely suspended because Thai armed forces have invaded Cambodian territory and continue to occupy it illegally. The Cambodian side has sent multiple diplomatic protests to Thailand, but the situation has not improved. This issue was also raised when Prime Minister Hun Manet met with UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights, Thomas Andrews, on July 30, 2026. The Prime Minister emphasized Cambodia's commitment to resolving border issues peacefully, based on international law and existing treaties and agreements between the two countries. Mr. Andrews highly praised the Cambodian government's efforts to assist and support refugees displaced by the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict who are unable to return to their homes. He also thanked the Cambodian government for accepting seven out of nine human rights-related documents and expressed readiness to cooperate constructively based on national and international law. The Prime Minister stated that the Cambodian government is focused on promoting fundamental human rights and freedoms based on national law and international instruments, particularly mentioning the improvement of access to healthcare and education services. He stressed that the exercise of rights and freedoms must be accompanied by responsibility and be within the limits of the law. The Prime Minister encouraged the Special Rapporteur to base his reports on comprehensive information from all relevant parties to further contribute to the implementation and promotion of human rights in Cambodia. Mr. Andrews pledged to cooperate with the Cambodian government to work in a constructive spirit. Furthermore, the Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of National Defence to prepare promotions and special medals for soldiers, police officers, and gendarmerie who participated in past battles, and to completely exempt stamp duty on the transfer of real estate ownership for soldiers currently stationed on the front lines. This is intended as a token of gratitude and encouragement for their brave deeds. The Prime Minister also characterized the distribution of real estate ownership certificates to citizens as part of strengthening national defense by boosting the citizens' economy. He expressed gratitude to citizens from all walks of life for their solidarity with the front-line soldiers and stated that the nationalistic spirit of Cambodians is strengthening the robust national unity behind the government led by the Cambodian People's Party, especially during a time when Cambodia faces territorial aggression. Source: CEN Cambodia