Cambodia Tells ASEAN of Thai Obstruction to Border Residents' Return

Cambodia has once again raised concerns with ASEAN regarding the obstruction by the Thai military of Cambodian civilians' return to their homes along the Cambodia-Thailand border. This ongoing obstruction means that more than 20,000 Cambodian civilians continue to reside in temporary shelters. The issue was brought up by Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prak Sokhonn, during a meeting between ASEAN Foreign Ministers and representatives of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights, held on July 20, 2026, in Manila, Philippines. According to a press release from the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on July 21, Deputy Prime Minister Sokhonn highlighted the severe humanitarian and human rights consequences faced by Cambodian civilians who have become victims of border conflicts. Deputy Prime Minister Sokhonn reported to the meeting that over 20,000 civilians remain in temporary shelters. Many children are unable to attend school, and the elderly and other vulnerable individuals lack adequate access to necessary care, despite the Cambodian government's efforts to alleviate their hardships. The Foreign Minister appealed to ASEAN for support to ensure these civilians can return to their homes safely and with dignity, free from any obstruction. Past border conflicts between Cambodia and Thailand have forced over 640,000 citizens to leave their homes. Following ceasefire agreements, nearly 620,000 citizens have returned. However, as of July 20, 2026, a report from the Ministry of Interior indicates that approximately 20,281 Cambodian displaced persons, including 10,331 women and 6,066 children, are still unable to return to their residences due to illegal actions by Thai forces, such as the laying of barbed wire, placement of containers, and destruction. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local