Cambodian rights chief urges Japan’s support over Thai border tensions

PHNOM PENH, Feb 10, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s top human rights official has raised concerns with Japan over the continued displacement of civilians following recent border tensions with Thailand, urging Tokyo to play a role in encouraging dialogue under international law.

Senior Minister Keo Remy, head of the Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC), met Japanese Ambassador Ueno Atsushi in Phnom Penh on February 9, according to a statement released Tuesday.

Remy said that despite a ceasefire agreed on December 27, about 90,000 people remained unable to return home. He blamed the situation on what he described as Thai forces’ illegal occupation of Cambodian territory and obstructive measures, including barbed wire and shipping containers.

He argued such actions violated Article 4 of the ceasefire agreement, which calls for civilians to return safely without obstruction.

Remy warned the displacement was having serious consequences for fundamental rights, particularly for women, children, the elderly and those needing medical care, citing impacts on education, healthcare, housing and freedom of movement.

The minister also accused Thai forces of incursions involving aircraft and munitions, and of indiscriminate attacks on civilians. He said homes, schools, hospitals, religious sites and ancient temples – including the UNESCO listed Preah Vihear Temple – had been damaged or destroyed.

Remy stressed that lasting peace could only be achieved through international mechanisms and law, adding that Cambodia believed Japan could play an important role in encouraging Thailand to engage in dialogue.

Ambassador Ueno said he would report the situation to Tokyo and noted that Japan had already provided humanitarian assistance to civilians displaced by the border tensions, in support of Cambodia’s relief efforts.