Cambodia Highlights Thai 'Atrocities' at UN Amid Trust-Building Talks

Mr. Ke Sovann, Cambodia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, has reiterated the suffering of Cambodian civilians due to Thailand's cross-border incursions. During the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council on September 16, 2026, he highlighted the impact on over 20,000 displaced Cambodians and nearly 4,000 square kilometers of Cambodian territory affected by unexploded ordnance and cluster bombs allegedly used by Thailand during border conflicts in 2025. "These unexploded bombs not only hinder the safe return of displaced communities but also continue to pose dangers to civilians, especially women and children, and create long-term consequences for future generations," Mr. Ke Sovann stated. This statement comes as Cambodia and Thailand are engaged in maritime border reconciliation talks, with a joint commission meeting held in Singapore from September 14 to 16, 2026. Conversely, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangkhaew, speaking at the opening of the meeting on September 15, suggested that Cambodia's continued raising of issues on the international stage complicates trust-building between the two nations. He urged for bilateral negotiations to foster confidence, stating, "Thailand wants diplomatic negotiations to build trust, and diplomatic relations should not be about moving forward and backward to find different solutions." Cambodia has previously argued that relying solely on bilateral mechanisms has not always ensured Thai compliance with international law. The unilateral abrogation of a 2001 Memorandum of Understanding by Thailand, followed by alleged military incursions, led Cambodia to pursue international legal avenues. The two invasions by Thailand in 2025 resulted in the loss of 14 locations in four border provinces, displacing hundreds of thousands. Currently, over 20,000 individuals remain unable to return to their homes, and thousands of square kilometers near the border have become dangerous zones due to Thai cluster munitions.