Cambodian Artists Call for Peace as Border Violence Leaves 19 Dead, Thousands Displaced

SIEM REAP, Cambodia (Dec. 22, 2025) — As fighting intensifies along the Cambodia–Thailand border, Cambodian artists are turning grief into a public call for peace. In Siem Reap, dozens of painters gathered Sunday to create a massive collaborative canvas under the theme “Art for Peace,” depicting the toll of violence and urging an end to hostilities.

The five meter high, 30 meter long artwork was unveiled at a public park near Preah Ang Chek–Preah Ang Chorm, one of the city’s most symbolic cultural sites. Dark hues and fractured forms portrayed civilians caught in conflict, reflecting what authorities describe as ongoing acts of aggression against Cambodia’s sovereignty.

The initiative comes as Cambodia’s Defense Ministry reported fresh attacks on civilian areas and temple sites across Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Banteay Meanchey and Pursat provinces.

The Interior Ministry said at least 19 civilians have been killed and 79 injured since Dec. 7, while more than 525,000 people — including nearly 170,000 children — have been displaced.

Officials said the destruction includes homes, schools, health centers, pagodas, temples, bridges and markets. Artists said the scale of damage compelled them to act, using art as a plea for peace and resilience amid escalating violence.