The Kingdom of Cambodia has issued a formal protest to the Royal Thai government against the latest persistent encroachment by Thai forces into border areas between the two countries. The development has raised concerns about regional stability and the potential for violence, highlighting the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve long-standing border disputes.
The protest communication, dated August 25, 2025, expressed grave concerns over the Thai military's actions in laying barbed wire at new locations near the boundary pillars between Cambodia and Thailand. The encroachment activities, which began on August 12, 2025, are seen as undermining efforts to implement a ceasefire agreed upon on July 28, 2025, and other bilateral agreements.
Historical Background
The border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has its roots in the 1960s, when the two countries signed the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC). The treaty established a framework for resolving disputes through peaceful means and cooperation. However, over the years, both countries have experienced tensions and conflicts along their shared border.
In recent years, Cambodia has been working to demarcate its land boundaries with neighboring countries, including Thailand. In 2000, the two countries signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Land Boundary Demarcation, which aimed to resolve outstanding boundary issues through joint commissioning and negotiation.
Key Stakeholders and Motivations
The dispute between Cambodia and Thailand is not just a bilateral issue but also involves regional powers. ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, has been involved in mediating efforts to resolve the border disputes. However, so far, talks have been slow and inconclusive.
Cambodia's position on the border dispute is driven by its desire for national unity and stability. The government views the demarcation process as essential to addressing long-standing border tensions with neighboring countries.
Thailand's actions are motivated by a mix of security concerns and economic interests. Thailand has long considered Cambodia a key partner in regional affairs, and maintaining good relations is crucial for its economic growth.
Recent Developments
Over the past six months, there have been several incidents that have escalated tensions between Cambodia and Thailand. In July 2025, both countries agreed to implement a ceasefire, which aimed to reduce violence along their shared border. However, Thai military actions in laying barbed wire near the boundary pillars have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the agreement.
Future Impact
Looking ahead, it is likely that tensions between Cambodia and Thailand will continue to escalate unless diplomatic efforts succeed in resolving the border dispute. The short-term outcome may see increased military presence along the shared border, while the long-term impact could be a permanent solution to the conflict, which would require cooperation from both countries.
The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of regional diplomacy and cooperation in preventing conflicts from escalating into violence.
Expert Insights
According to Dr. Thak Phan, Director-General of the Centre for International Studies (CIS), "This development highlights the need for Cambodia and Thailand to strengthen their diplomatic efforts to resolve outstanding issues."
Dr. Sophea Oeun, a senior research fellow at the Cambodian Institute of Development Studies, noted, "The border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has long-standing historical roots, but recent tensions have raised concerns about regional stability."