Envoys Witness Conditions of Displaced Families in Banteay Meanchey

Envoys Witness Conditions of Displaced Families in Banteay Meanchey

BANTEAY MEANCHEY, Feb 23, 2026 — Diplomats and representatives of international organizations visited temporary shelters in northwestern Cambodia on Monday to assess the situation of civilians displaced by ongoing border tensions with Thailand, Cambodian officials said.

The delegation, led by Acting Foreign Minister Eat Sophea, toured safety centers at Wat Chansy Samaki Ratanaram in Ou Chrov district and Wat Kandol in Thma Puok district, where displaced families are currently staying.

The evacuees are from Chok Chey and Prey Chan villages in Ou Beichoan commune and from the Boeung Trakoun area of Thma Puok district. Cambodian authorities say residents fled after Thai military forces installed barbed wire and shipping containers near parts of the villages and damaged some homes.

Officials said the visit allowed foreign envoys and international agencies to observe living conditions in the camps, where families are sheltering in small tents that provide limited protection from rain and heat. Authorities cited challenges including shortages of clean water, sanitation facilities and healthcare services, while children lack adequate play areas and elderly residents face health concerns.

According to Cambodia’s Interior Ministry, more than 60,000 people remain in displacement camps as of Feb. 22.

A ceasefire agreement reached on Dec. 27, 2025, included provisions allowing affected civilians to return home safely and without obstruction. Cambodian officials have accused Thai forces of actions that they say undermine that agreement, including installing barriers and occupying land.

Cambodia has formally protested the alleged activities and said it does not recognize any unilateral change to the border through the use of force, reiterating its call for disputes to be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law.

Photo: Fresh News