Thailand Rejects UN Border Report, Citing Neglect of Its Losses

Thailand has strongly rejected a report by the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia, which estimated approximately 650,000 Cambodians were internally displaced during recent border clashes. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the findings were based on "one-sided information" and failed to adequately incorporate Thailand's perspective. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is preparing a factual response to be submitted to the United Nations. Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasized that while the report was issued by an independent rapporteur, not an official UN Human Rights Council resolution, Thailand fundamentally disagrees with its conclusions. He specifically pointed out that the report "does not mention Thailand's losses at all," arguing that assessments should reflect the suffering of both sides. Minister Sihasak also questioned the figure of 650,000 displaced Cambodians, suggesting it might include residents of long-established Cambodian villages in disputed border areas, who should not automatically be classified as internally displaced. He clarified that Thailand evacuated around 400,000 of its own citizens during the conflict and took responsibility for their care. Claims of forced repatriation of Cambodian migrant workers were denied, with the minister stating they returned voluntarily after appeals from the Cambodian government. Concerned that the report could be used as a political tool against Thailand, Bangkok intends to submit formal letters of objection to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the President of the UN Human Rights Council. Regarding border negotiations, Thailand maintains its legal position and negotiating conditions, asserting that no country can force it to accept an unacceptable mechanism. Land boundary discussions will continue under the framework of the 2000 MoU, while maritime boundary negotiations must proceed under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos), following Thailand's withdrawal from a related 2001 memorandum. Information source: Bangkok Post