Prak Sokhonn Briefs ASEAN on Human Rights Impact of Border Tensions

Prak Sokhonn Briefs ASEAN on Human Rights Impact of Border Tensions

MANILA, 22 July 2026 — Cambodia has called on fellow ASEAN member states to support the safe and dignified return of Cambodian civilians displaced by the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn said during ministerial meetings in the Philippines.

Prak Sokhonn made the appeal on Tuesday during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting with representatives of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) and the meeting of the Commission for the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ).

Addressing the meetings, the Cambodian foreign minister highlighted what he described as the humanitarian and human rights consequences faced by Cambodian civilians affected by the border conflict.

He told delegates that more than 20,000 Cambodian civilians remain in temporary shelters, with many children unable to attend school, while elderly people and other vulnerable groups continue to face difficulties accessing essential care despite government efforts to alleviate their hardship.

Prak Sokhonn called on ASEAN partners to support Cambodia’s appeal for displaced civilians to be able to return to their homes safely, voluntarily and with dignity, without obstruction.

On the sidelines of the ASEAN meetings, Prak Sokhonn also held bilateral talks with Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro.

The two ministers exchanged views on regional and international developments, as well as issues of mutual interest.

During the meeting, Prak Sokhonn expressed appreciation for what he described as the Philippines’ constructive support and role in facilitating efforts to peacefully address the Cambodia-Thailand border issue, including its leadership of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) in its capacity as ASEAN Chair.