Locations Affected: Cambodia, Thailand
Following several rounds of coordinated diplomatic and military negotiations, tensions between Cambodia and Thailand began to de-escalate on 08 June, as both countries agreed to return their forces to military positions established in 2024. Both countries had increased their military presence after a brief clash on 28 May, which resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier in the disputed border region between Cambodia’s Preah Vihear Province and Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani Province. The recent escalation also prompted evacuations from border areas and led Thailand to reduce operating hours at 10 border crossings with Cambodia.
Background to the Border Disputes Between the Countries
Cambodia and Thailand share an 817-kilometre border, with several contested, un-demarcated sections dating back to 1907, when France mapped the boundaries of its former colony, Cambodia. A significant dispute erupted in 2008 over an 11th-century Hindu temple located between Cambodia’s Choam Khsant District (Preah Vihear Province) and Thailand’s Kantharalak District (Sisaket Province), resulting in several skirmishes, at least 28 deaths, and a weeklong artillery exchange in 2011. Tensions eventually eased after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) reaffirmed its 1962 ruling awarding the disputed territory to Cambodia and ordered Thai troops to withdraw.
Impact of the Recent Conflict
- The Joint Boundary Committee, established to facilitate bilateral negotiations, is scheduled to meet on 14 June. Thai officials expect the conflict to be fully resolved at this meeting.
- However, Cambodia’s Foreign Minister, Prak Sokhonn, reiterated the government’s decision to seek a ruling from the ICJ. Thailand has stated that it does not recognize the court’s jurisdiction and prefers to resolve the matter through bilateral talks.
- Despite past tensions, Cambodia and Thailand have generally maintained warm ties, partly due to the close relationship between Thailand’s former leader Thaksin Shinawatra and Cambodia’s former Prime Minister Hun Sen, whose daughter and son are now the respective prime ministers. However, the recent conflict could strain bilateral relations.
- Border restrictions are likely to be gradually lifted, depending on developments in the situation.
Outlook on the Situation
The recent conflict has renewed attention on the longstanding border disputes between Cambodia and Thailand. The situation has so far been contained through diplomatic coordination, but tensions could rise again, particularly if Cambodia proceeds with its plan to seek ICJ intervention. The outcome of the 14 June Joint Boundary Committee meeting will be critical. Domestic political pressure may also mount on Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, especially from nationalist groups that oppose ongoing negotiations with Cambodia to jointly explore energy resources in un-demarcated maritime areas.
