Opinion: A logical argument as to why Thailand cannot blame Cambodia for mine casualties

DC-Cam director Youk Chhang and friends visit Cambodian soldiers in the Ta Thau area, February 2025. Supplied

The Cambodian government cannot be held responsible for the Thai military’s failure to properly de-mine areas under Thai sovereignty.

With respect to land mines and other types of unexploded ordnance, it is important to recognise that the areas where the Thais have experienced casualties are understood to be areas that have been subjected to various types of mining operations, aerial bombardment and artillery shelling. These are not areas that should be considered safe, particularly when compared to areas that are more well-travelled. There is an additional consideration that must be made.

With GPS technology, there is no reason for Thai to complain about casualties from mines and unexploded ordnance on Cambodian territory because technically if they are suffering casualties in these areas, then they are admitting their illegal encroachment on Cambodian soil. In the reverse, the Cambodian government cannot be held responsible for the Thai military’s failure to properly de-mine areas under Thai sovereignty.

The argument that Cambodians are illegally placing mines in Thai territory is an evidence-dependent allegation, and I support international law. Any actions taken by either party must be in accordance with law.

Youk Chhang is director of the Documentation Center of Cambodia (DC-Cam). The views and opinions expressed are his own.