Prak Sokhonn Calls for UNESCO Action on Threats to Heritage Sites

Prak Sokhonn Calls for UNESCO Action on Threats to Heritage Sites

PHNOM PENH, April 12, 2026 — Cambodia has called on UNESCO to take a stronger role in preventing attacks on World Heritage sites, as concerns grow over damage linked to recent border tensions.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn raised the issue during a meeting with UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany in Paris, according to an official statement released on Sunday.

Prak Sokhonn expressed concern over reported damage to cultural heritage sites, including the Preah Vihear Temple, citing the impact of recent Cambodia–Thailand border tensions.

He called for UNESCO to play a more active role in safeguarding heritage sites globally and preventing further attacks, while welcoming the agency’s dispatch of expert missions to assess damage and its readiness to provide emergency support.

The Cambodian minister also reaffirmed that the temple had not been used for military purposes, stressing the country’s commitment to protecting its cultural heritage.

For his part, UNESCO chief Khaled El-Enany reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and supporting Cambodia through technical assistance and international cooperation. He also signaled plans to visit Cambodia later this year.

UNESCO said it would provide emergency funding and continue working with international partners to support heritage protection efforts.

The meeting comes amid heightened sensitivity over cultural heritage preservation in conflict-affected areas, with Cambodia urging stronger international mechanisms to safeguard globally significant sites.

Both sides expressed confidence that closer cooperation would help advance heritage protection and contribute to regional peace and stability.