Opinion, United Behind Our Principles: Cambodia’s Path to Peace and Sovereignty

Opinion, United Behind Our Principles: Cambodia’s Path to Peace and Sovereignty

Khmer Times | In the face of ongoing border tensions with Thailand, the Cambodian people must stand united, proud, and unwavering behind our government’s principled stance. This is not just a matter of territorial integrity—it is about defending truth, justice, and the values that define us as a nation. Cambodia does not bow to threats, coercion, or manipulation. Instead, we respond with resolve, and a deep respect for international law.
For centuries, Cambodia has been home to one of Southeast Asia’s most enduring civilizations—rich in culture and wisdom. Our history teaches us that strength lies not in aggression, but in resilience and dignity. In today’s disputes, we continue that tradition, choosing lawful diplomacy over confrontation, and cooperation over conflict. The Cambodian government’s approach to the border dispute with Thailand is rooted in this legacy: we seek truth through peaceful means and we engage the international community through established legal frameworks.

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of Thailand’s approach. While publicly professing commitment to dialogue and peace, their actions often contradict their words. Their tactics increasingly rely on misinformation, distortion, and public manipulation. This dissonance between rhetoric and reality damages trust, not only between our two nations, but also within the broader regional and international community. Cambodia, by contrast, has maintained a consistent, transparent, and peaceful stance, despite provocation.

In this context, Cambodian citizens have every reason to be proud of their country and its leadership. We are demonstrating what it means to be a responsible, rules-based member of the international community. We are showing that small nations can stand tall when they are grounded in principle. Our insistence on using international legal mechanisms, such as the International Court of Justice, to resolve disputes is a testament to our commitment to peace and justice.

But pride must be matched with unity. In these moments of tension, we must put aside divisions and rally behind the values that define our national character. We must reject disinformation and remain vigilant against efforts to sow internal discord. The strength of a nation lies in its unity, and Cambodia’s moral clarity in this dispute is a source of collective strength.

We must also continue to pursue good neighborliness—not out of weakness, but out of conviction. Dialogue remains essential, but it must be genuine, not merely a display. Cambodia means what it says, and we expect the same in return. Our desire for peace is not a strategic position—it is who we are.

Let us stay firm in our resolve, guided by truth, justice, and our deep commitment to peace. Let us demonstrate to the world that Cambodia will never yield when it comes to our sovereignty, our truth, or our core principles. In standing our ground, we are not only protecting our borders—we are upholding the values that define us as a proud and enduring nation.

By Khemrak Rath,
He is a Phnom Penh-based geopolitical analyst. The views and opinions expressed here are his own.