Cambodia Urges Protection of Migrant Workers Amid Border Tensions with Thailand

GENEVA, June 22, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has urged host countries to step up protections for migrant workers, warning they must not be made victims of political tensions or interstate disputes.

Speaking at the UN Human Rights Council’s 62nd session, Ambassador Ke Sovann, Cambodia’s Permanent Representative in Geneva, voiced support for efforts to uphold migrant rights and combat discrimination and abuse.

The appeal came against the backdrop of recent tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border, where Cambodian migrant workers reportedly faced xenophobia, hate speech, discriminatory treatment and violence.

“Migrant workers should never be targeted, threatened or discriminated against on the basis of their nationality, nor become victims of political tensions or interstate conflicts,” the Cambodian delegation said.

The delegation emphasized that migrant workers contribute significantly to both origin and host countries through their labour, skills and remittances.

Their protection, dignity and well-being, as well as access to essential services such as healthcare, must be guaranteed at all times, it added.

Cambodia also called on host countries to fulfil obligations under international human rights law, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other relevant instruments, particularly during periods of tension and conflict.

Concluding its intervention, the delegation asked the UN Special Rapporteur what measures states should adopt to better safeguard migrant workers affected by cross-border tensions and interstate disputes.