Cambodian UN Envoy Highlights Severe Impact of Border Conflict on Civilians

AKP Phnom Penh, September 17, 2026— Cambodia's permanent representative to the United Nations in Geneva has raised strong concerns over the severe impact of the Cambodian-Thai border conflict on civilians, particularly women and children. Ambassador H.E. Ke Sovann delivered the remarks during the 63rd Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Wednesday, speaking under Agenda Item 3 during an interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner's analytical report on the human rights of women and children in conflict and post-conflict situations. In his intervention, Ambassador Ke Sovann highlighted that over 20,000 Cambodian civilians remain displaced and cited the contamination of Cambodian territory by newly used cluster munitions resulting from the armed conflict along the border. He urged all parties to strictly adhere to international law, international humanitarian law, and human rights standards to protect civilians from the devastating effects of war. The ambassador also firmly rejected the unfounded allegations by Thailand, clarifying details regarding the outbreak of hostilities, landmine usage, and damage to cultural heritage—specifically the Preah Vihear Temple. He further addressed UN reports concerning displacement and civilian infrastructure destruction, while denouncing unlawful activities by Thai military forces on territory under illegal occupation. Ambassador Ke Sovann reaffirmed Cambodia's call for full compliance with the Joint Declaration signed between the two nations on Dec. 27, 2025. By K. Rithy Reak