Cambodia files urgent UN appeal over ‘grave’ human rights abuses at Thai border

Image: Cambodian internally displaced persons shelter in temporary camps near the Thai-Cambodian border. AKP

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The Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) has submitted an urgent appeal to the United Nations, alleging “grave violations” against more than 115,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) following military actions by Thailand.

The appeal, sent to Paula Gaviria Betancur, the UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights of IDPs in Geneva, claims that Thai armed forces have obstructed the safe return of Cambodian civilians despite a ceasefire agreement reached on December 27, 2025.

According to a CHRC statement issued yesterday, displaced Cambodians remain unable to return to their communities due to the “unlawful invasion and occupation” of border areas. The committee alleged that Thai forces have destroyed civilian homes and installed shipping containers and barbed wire to block access.

The CHRC maintains that these actions violate multiple articles of the “Ceasefire Agreement” established during the 3rd Special General Border Committee (GBC). Specifically, the committee cited breaches of agreements to protect civilian infrastructure and ensure the dignified return of residents to their homes.

“The illegal occupation, destruction of homes, and theft of civilian property are serious violations of international humanitarian law,” the CHRC said, citing the Geneva Conventions and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The committee highlighted the plight of vulnerable groups, noting that women, children, and the elderly face “heightened risks” including poverty, loss of education, and restricted access to essential health services.

The CHRC requested that the Special Rapporteur:

• Urgently address the displacement situation caused by Thai military actions.

• Communicate directly with the Thai government to demand an immediate cessation of obstructions.

• Call for the withdrawal of Thai forces from Cambodian territory.

• Advocate for reparations and compensation for the affected IDPs.

“Internal displacement must not be normalised,” the CHRC added, warning that international silence risks “entrenching impunity” and prolonging the suffering of over 115,000 civilians. AKP