Cambodia Urges International Oversight After Alleged Assault by Thai Soldiers

PHNOM PENH, Nov. 19, 2025 — Cambodia’s Ministry of Women’s Affairs has called on the international community, including the UN Human Rights Office and UN Women, to press Thai authorities to urgently investigate the alleged gang rape of a Cambodian migrant worker by seven Thai soldiers.

The ministry said the incident occurred Nov. 15, when 13 Cambodian workers were traveling out of Thailand on their way home. Officials said the group was subjected to violence, including beatings, extortion and threats, before one woman was allegedly assaulted by seven soldiers.

The ministry condemned the actions as “brutal, cruel, inhumane and unacceptable,” saying the incident violated human rights, women’s rights and migrant workers’ rights under Cambodian law and international conventions such as CEDAW, the International Organization for Migration guidelines and ASEAN frameworks.

Authorities said Cambodia is coordinating across ministries and law enforcement to pursue legal measures and ensure accountability. The victim is receiving medical care and psychological support at a provincial referral hospital’s gender-based violence response center.

Reiterating its appeal, the ministry urged international organizations to ensure Thai authorities conduct a transparent investigation and bring all perpetrators to justice “without exception,” stressing the need to secure justice for the victims.