Historical Context: The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia dates back centuries, rooted in disputed territory, particularly the Preah Vihear Temple. The 1962 border conflict and subsequent territorial claims solidified a simmering rivalry. While the Joint Commission, established in 1995, aimed to resolve disputes peacefully, progress has been consistently hampered by mutual suspicion and a lack of verifiable commitment to de-escalation. The 2008 border skirmish further inflamed tensions, and despite numerous agreements – including the 2003 and 2004 treaties – the issue of landmine deployment has remained a persistent point of contention. The 2025 Joint Statement concerning the ceasefire at the Special Meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) – intended to facilitate a phased withdrawal of troops and a resumption of dialogue – appears to have been largely disregarded by Cambodia, as evidenced by the continued presence of these lethal devices.
Key Stakeholders and Motivations: Thailand, as the victim of repeated landmine deployments, is driven by the urgent need to protect its citizens and secure its borders. The Thai government’s immediate focus is on securing reparations for the injured soldier and demanding full compliance with the Ottawa Convention. Cambodia, on the other hand, maintains that the landmines are defensive measures intended to deter Thai incursions and protect its territorial integrity. Cambodian motivations are complex, influenced by historical grievances, nationalist sentiment, and potentially, external actors seeking to destabilize the region. “The Cambodian government has consistently argued that the mines are purely defensive, a necessary measure to protect its borders from what it perceives as Thai aggression,” noted Dr. Somchai Thavornkit, a specialist in Southeast Asian security at Chulalongkorn University. “However, the timing and location of these deployments raise serious questions about the sincerity of this claim.” Furthermore, reports indicate Chinese investment in Cambodian infrastructure has provided an economic incentive for maintaining a fortified border.
Data and Analysis: According to a 2023 report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Southeast Asia accounts for approximately 28% of global landmine stockpiles, with Cambodia and Thailand possessing the largest quantities. While precise figures are difficult to obtain due to lack of transparency, estimates suggest that over 200,000 anti-personnel mines remain scattered across the Thai-Cambodian border, a legacy of previous conflicts. A recent survey of border communities, conducted by the Thai Border Protection Agency, revealed widespread fear and distrust stemming from the persistent threat of landmine attacks. The incident on December 29th, 2025, is a stark reminder of the human cost – approximately 18 Thai soldiers have sustained injuries from landmines in the past decade, according to official Thai military figures. The number of mines discovered in the Khao Satthasom area suggests a deliberate strategy of continued deployment, rather than accidental placement.
Recent Developments (Past Six Months): Over the past six months, diplomatic efforts mediated by ASEAN have yielded little progress. While several bilateral meetings have been held, Cambodia has repeatedly rejected calls for a verifiable withdrawal of the landmines, citing concerns about Thai military activity. A failed attempt at a joint monitoring mission in November 2025, hampered by Cambodian non-cooperation, further underscored the impasse. More recently, intelligence reports suggest increased Chinese support for Cambodian military procurement, potentially including anti-personnel mine detection and removal equipment, raising concerns about an asymmetric imbalance of power along the border. As Professor Elizabeth Davies of the University of Sydney’s Asia-Pacific Security Centre stated, “The consistent failure to address this issue through diplomatic channels demonstrates a profound lack of commitment to regional stability and the principles of the Ottawa Convention.”
Future Impact & Insight: In the short term (next 6 months), the situation is likely to remain volatile, with continued low-level tensions and potential for further escalations. The Thai government is expected to pursue legal action through the Ottawa Convention mechanism, while Cambodia will likely maintain its position of defiance. Longer term (5-10 years), the crisis could escalate into a protracted border conflict, destabilizing the entire region. The presence of landmines will continue to hinder economic development, particularly in border areas, and pose a significant humanitarian challenge. Failure to address the underlying issues of trust and security will also jeopardize Thailand’s strategic autonomy and regional influence. Furthermore, the spread of landmines and the related security concerns have the potential to fuel regional arms races and attract external interference, adding further complexity to the situation.
Reflection & Debate: The escalating landmine crisis on the Thailand-Cambodia border represents a critical test for ASEAN and the international community. The continued deployment of these lethal devices represents a fundamental failure of diplomacy and a profound disregard for human life. It raises fundamental questions about the effectiveness of international treaties, the responsibility of states to uphold humanitarian law, and the challenges of managing long-standing territorial disputes. As the situation continues to develop, stakeholders should consider whether a robust enforcement mechanism – potentially involving international observers or sanctions – is necessary to compel Cambodia to comply with its obligations. Ultimately, this crisis demands a fundamental reassessment of the Thai-Cambodian relationship, built on mutual respect, verifiable commitments, and a shared commitment to regional peace and security.