Thai Human Rights Experts Condemn Loud Noise Tactics Against Cambodian Villagers

BANGKOK, Thailand(Oct.14,2025) — Thai human rights experts have joined the Cambodian Human Rights Committee in condemning the reported use of loud and disturbing noises near the Thai-Cambodian border, calling it a violation of international law and human dignity.

The Cambodian Human Rights Committee said Tuesday it had submitted an urgent appeal to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, alleging that high-volume sounds — including bells, aircraft noises and other disruptions — were broadcast into Cambodian villages for several consecutive nights.

The broadcasts reportedly targeted residents of Chouk Chey and Prey Chan villages in Cambodia’s Banteay Meanchey province, raising alarm among international observers.

Sunai Phasuk, senior adviser to Human Rights Watch in Thailand, became the third Thai official to publicly denounce the practice, following similar statements by Sen. Angkhana Neelapaijit and a senior official in the Office of the Thai Prosecutor General.

Sunai described the broadcasts as “a psychological operation involving sound in torture,” saying they violate both Thai law and international agreements, including the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

“The main purpose is to amplify the sound through barbed wire toward the Cambodian community,” he said. “It’s a deliberate attempt to disturb, intimidate and instill fear in civilians — and a violation of the ceasefire agreement.”

Sunai also criticized the Thai military’s inaction, noting that vehicles equipped with loudspeakers were parked in areas under martial law where civilian access is restricted.

“Even if the perpetrators were not acting under official orders, why did the army not stop it?” he said. “How could this occur without military knowledge?”

The Cambodian Human Rights Committee said the statements reflect growing international recognition of the seriousness of the situation and highlight Thailand’s obligations under international law.

“The use of psychological intimidation tactics against civilians not only violates basic human rights but undermines efforts for peaceful resolution,” the committee said.

Cambodian authorities continue to call for restraint, respect for the ceasefire and a peaceful settlement of ongoing border tensions with Thailand.