Cambodia Raises Border Conflict Humanitarian Concerns at UN Human Rights Council
Cambodia Raises Border Conflict Humanitarian Concerns at UN Human Rights Council
GENEVA, Sept. 9, 2026 — Cambodia has raised concerns over the continuing human rights and humanitarian consequences of the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict, including the displacement of more than 20,000 Cambodians and damage to civilian infrastructure.
Speaking during the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva on September 8, Cambodian Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN Office at Geneva Ke Sovann delivered Cambodia’s statement under Agenda Item 2, during the general debate on the annual report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
In his remarks, Ke Sovann highlighted what Cambodia described as the continuing humanitarian impact of the border conflict and called for full respect for international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He said more than 20,000 Cambodians remain displaced as a result of the conflict, while civilian infrastructure has been damaged.
The ambassador also expressed grave concern over what he described as continuing unlawful activities by Thai armed forces in areas that Cambodia considers part of its territory.
According to Cambodia’s statement, such activities include the installation of barbed wire and containers, as well as the construction of military and civilian infrastructure. Cambodia also raised concerns over the alleged issuance of land titles to Thai citizens before completion of joint border demarcation.
Cambodia argued that such actions could create “faits accomplis” on the ground and called for international law to be fully respected in addressing the dispute.
The Cambodian delegation stressed that sovereignty and territorial integrity should be protected and that disputes must be resolved through peaceful means.
The statement comes during the 63rd regular session of the Human Rights Council, which is being held in Geneva from September 7 to October 7, 2026.
Humanitarian concerns arising from the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict have also been raised within the UN human-rights system. An OHCHR communication published earlier this year documented information concerning alleged large-scale displacement, destruction of homes and livelihoods, and difficulties accessing essential services in connection with the conflict.
Cambodia has repeatedly used the Human Rights Council to call for peaceful dispute settlement and adherence to international law. During the Council’s previous session in June, Ambassador Ke Sovann similarly stressed that borders and sovereignty should not be changed through force and that disputes should be addressed through dialogue and respect for the UN Charter.
At the latest session, Cambodia said that respecting international law and protecting civilians were essential to ending the humanitarian consequences of the border conflict and establishing lasting peace.
