Oxfam Sounds Alarm as Over 630,000 Displaced in Cambodia–Thailand Border Crisis

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 25, 2025) — Oxfam has issued an urgent warning over a worsening humanitarian emergency along the Cambodia–Thailand border, saying more than 630,000 civilians — many of them women and children — have been forced into displacement centers amid escalating airstrikes, bombardments and drone surveillance.

The international aid organization said the violence has caused “unacceptable harm,” cutting off access to food, health care, education and livelihoods, while destroying homes, schools, health centers, markets, bridges, infrastructure and cultural and religious sites.

According to Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior, at least 30 civilians have been killed, 87 injured and more than 636,000 displaced since fighting reignited on Dec. 7.

Oxfam in Cambodia National Director Sophoan Phean called for an immediate end to hostilities and renewed investment in peacebuilding. “Every kit packed, every meal delivered, every safe shelter provided is a step toward dignity. But lasting change requires more than aid — it requires peace,” she said.

The organization warned that fighting during the harvest season is wiping out crops, threatening food security and incomes, and disrupting humanitarian operations by limiting safe access for aid workers.

Oxfam urged all parties to de-escalate tensions, uphold international humanitarian law and fully implement the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration, stressing that only a lasting ceasefire can restore rights, rebuild lives and open space for dialogue grounded in dignity, accountability and peace.