On August 5, 2025, the Royal Thai Army (RTA) granted access to the Regional Delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Bangkok, allowing officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to observe a visit with 18 Cambodian prisoners of war (POWs) at a detention facility.
The ICRC’s visit aimed to gather information on the well-being of the Cambodian POWs and re-establish connections between them and their families in Cambodia. During the visit, the ICRC was able to conduct private meetings with the POWs and perform physical checks.
According to the RTA, all 18 Cambodian POWs are in good health, without any injuries or mistreatment. The army has provided the POWs with adequate care, including three meals per day, dormitories with bedding, access to clean water and sanitation facilities, and medical attention from a medic sergeant stationed at the facility.
In light of the ongoing ceasefire along the Thai-Cambodian border, it is essential to prevent the POWs from being forced to re-engage in combat. They will be released and repatriated as soon as hostilities cease.
The Thai government reaffirmed its commitment to cooperating with the ICRC and ensuring transparency in its operations, while upholding human dignity and adhering to international humanitarian practices.
Significance of the Visit
The visit highlights the importance of diplomatic efforts to promote humanitarian values and ensure the humane treatment of detainees. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ observation of this event underscores its commitment to upholding these principles.
The development also serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to resolve tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, which have been in place since the 1990s. While significant progress has been made in recent years, the situation remains complex, and diplomatic engagement remains crucial for promoting stability and security in the region.
Background
The Royal Thai Army granted access to the ICRC’s visit to the detention facility as part of its ongoing commitment to upholding humanitarian law and international human rights standards. The ICRC’s role is to provide assistance and support to detainees, while promoting respect for human dignity and protecting civilians from violence.
The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a long history of supporting humanitarian efforts in Southeast Asia, with a focus on promoting cooperation, stability, and security in the region.
Conclusion
The visit by the ICRC to observe the detention facility underscores the importance of diplomatic engagement and cooperation in promoting humanitarian values. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ observation of this event highlights its commitment to upholding human dignity and adhering to international humanitarian practices.