Cambodia Says Thai Troops Prevent 80,000 From Returning Home

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, Speaking at the High-Level Segment of the 61st Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva

Phnom Penh, Feb. 26, 2026 — Cambodia on Monday called for the withdrawal of Thai military forces from what it described as Cambodian territory, telling the United Nations Human Rights Council that their presence remains the main obstacle to the safe return of tens of thousands of displaced civilians.

Speaking at the High-Level Segment of the 61st Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn said Thai military operations had expanded across several border areas since mid-2025, resulting in serious consequences for civilians.

“The second ceasefire reached at the end of last year still holds but remains fragile,” he told delegates. He said military positions had been established beyond claimed border lines, leading to encroachments inside Cambodian territory.

According to Prak Sokhonn, civilians in several affected villages were forcibly evicted, homes destroyed and access restricted by barbed wire and shipping containers, preventing their safe and dignified return despite prior bilateral agreements.

He said that at the height of hostilities nearly 650,000 people were displaced, with more than 80,000 still unable to return home. The situation, he added, raises concerns under international human rights law, including rights to life, security, freedom of movement and adequate housing.

Thailand has previously said it remains committed to peaceful dialogue and existing agreements in resolving border issues.

Prak Sokhonn said Cambodia had exercised restraint, continued humanitarian assistance to displaced communities and remained committed to a sustainable ceasefire and peaceful settlement.

He urged “full respect and faithful implementation of existing agreements” and called for the withdrawal of Thai forces, describing their presence as the principal obstacle to restoring normalcy.

“Only through adherence to international law and the principle of non-use of force can our two peoples coexist in peace, stability and mutual respect,” he said.