UN Human Rights Envoy for Cambodia Expresses Deep Concern Over Plight of Displaced Persons Near Thai Border

Phnom Penh, July 31, 2026 -- Tom Andrews, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Cambodia, expressed deep concern at a press conference held in Phnom Penh on July 31, 2026, regarding the dire situation of Cambodian citizens displaced near the Thai border. Andrews stated that during his visit to the Thai-Cambodian border to witness firsthand the impact and meet with affected citizens in temporary shelters, he was deeply moved by the victims' tearful accounts of what they had lost. He recounted their descriptions of their villages being bombed and their homes bulldozed. Approximately 650,000 civilians were displaced from the border areas late last year, but over 20,000 people remain unable to return to their homes. These individuals informed him that they cannot return because their villages, where they lived, are currently occupied by Thai soldiers. The Special Rapporteur further reported that he traveled to the outskirts of populated areas where Thai soldiers had set up checkpoints and barbed wire fences to prevent Cambodian citizens from returning home. He observed that all the houses were riddled with holes and other damage, and he also saw an unexploded bomb. Andrews emphasized that, according to international law, displaced persons have the right to return to their homes. He specifically cited the ceasefire agreement of December 27, 2025, between Cambodia and Thailand, which clearly stipulates that civilians are permitted to return home to pursue their livelihoods safely and without obstruction. Tom Andrews stressed the necessity for both Cambodian and Thai parties to work together to expedite the return of displaced persons to their homes, as they need to return. He added that the human rights concerns related to this conflict are not limited to the loss of shelter. People living in the camps have indicated they are jobless, have lost their property, and are experiencing significant anxiety.