Thailand’s Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Eksiri Pintaruchi, chaired the inaugural meeting of the National Committee for International Humanitarian Law (IHL) on September 1, 2025, marking a potentially significant development in the Southeast Asian nation’s approach to regional security and international relations. The creation of this committee, approved by the Cabinet in October 2024, underscores a growing awareness within the Thai government of its obligations under IHL, particularly as simmering tensions along its border with Cambodia continue to demand careful diplomatic management. The committee’s focus, combined with recent events, suggests a deliberate and measured strategy aimed at bolstering Thailand’s position within the evolving security landscape of the Mekong region.
The establishment of the IHL Committee follows a period of escalating disputes centered primarily around the Preah Vihear temple, a contested border area jointly administered by Cambodia and Thailand. Prior to this, Thailand’s responses had largely relied on military deployments and legal challenges within the International Court of Justice. While these measures remain part of the government’s toolkit, the formation of this committee signals a move toward integrating IHL principles into Thailand’s broader diplomatic and security strategy. Specifically, the committee’s mandate includes advising the government on national obligations, promoting awareness, and reviewing domestic laws for alignment with international standards. This aligns with a growing trend among ASEAN nations to proactively engage with IHL, particularly given the increasing complexities of armed conflict in the region.
The immediate impetus for this initiative is undoubtedly linked to the ongoing dispute with Cambodia. The Committee’s stated intention to “take note of the outcome of the 34th International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (ICRCRC) in October 2024 in Geneva” points to a recognition of the ICRC’s vital role in conflict mediation and humanitarian assistance. Furthermore, the visit of the President of the ICRC to deliver a lecture at the 11th Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Lecture on International Humanitarian Law on August 18, 2025, highlights a deliberate effort to engage directly with the organization responsible for upholding IHL globally. Importantly, the Committee’s focus on Thailand’s commitments made at the 34th ICRCRC—eight pledges concerning assistance and cooperation— reflects a commitment to tangible action. The committee will oversee the implementation of these pledges, with the stated goal of achieving “progress and tangible outcomes.”
According to Dr. Arun Boonroong, Senior Fellow at the Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies, “Thailand’s engagement with IHL is a pragmatic response to the inherent risks of border disputes. It’s a demonstration of responsible statecraft, aligning national interests with internationally recognized norms. The creation of the committee is an essential component of a more sustainable and legally sound approach.” He further noted that Thailand’s ability to achieve meaningful progress hinges on sustained diplomatic engagement with Cambodia and a willingness to collaborate with international humanitarian organizations.
The Committee’s focus on reviewing domestic laws and considering accession to additional IHL instruments represents a longer-term strategic objective. As reported by Amelia Carter, a specialist in Southeast Asian security at the Griffith University’s Asia-Pacific Security College, “Thailand’s legal framework relating to IHL is currently underdeveloped. This review process is crucial to ensuring that Thailand fully complies with its obligations under international law, which will be instrumental in de-escalating tensions and fostering trust with neighboring countries.” The committee’s proposed subcommittee to conduct this review is a key indicator of Thailand’s commitment to long-term alignment.
Short-term (next 6 months) outcomes are likely to see continued diplomatic efforts facilitated by the IHL Committee. Thailand will likely work through international channels, including ASEAN, to seek a mutually agreeable resolution to the Preah Vihear dispute. The committee’s monitoring of the implementation of the eight pledges will be critical, with demonstrable progress potentially easing tensions. However, without a fundamental shift in Cambodia’s approach, maintaining a fragile equilibrium remains the most probable scenario.
Long-term (5-10 years) implications could involve Thailand becoming a more active participant in regional security dialogues and potentially adopting a more influential role in promoting IHL within the ASEAN bloc. However, success depends on sustained diplomatic engagement, a willingness to compromise, and continued commitment from the Thai government to fully integrate IHL principles into its foreign policy. The evolving situation around the border, coupled with increased regional competition for resources and influence, presents both challenges and opportunities for Thailand’s future role in Southeast Asia. The Committee’s actions will undoubtedly shape Thailand’s standing as a regional power and its commitment to the broader international community.