Aid Groups Warn of Deep Psychological Scars for Displaced Cambodian Children as Border Conflict Persists

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 16, 2025) — International aid groups warn that tens of thousands of Cambodian children uprooted by border fighting face severe and lasting psychological trauma, as violence continues to disrupt families and education across six provinces.

UNICEF Cambodia and education NGO Aide et Action said children in displacement camps are showing signs of acute emotional distress after witnessing airstrikes, armed clashes and forced evacuations linked to Thai military attacks. The groups cautioned that overcrowded camps have left children vulnerable to abuse, exploitation and violence.

“Children are deeply traumatized,” said Chhaya Plong, UNICEF’s child protection specialist. He noted many fled under fire and urgently need safe spaces, temporary classrooms and psychosocial care.

Vorn Samphors, Aide et Action’s country director, warned the impact on children under 10 could be long term, affecting emotional development and mental health. His organization is providing shelter, food and play areas, while supporting the Education Ministry to set up temporary schools in camps.

UNICEF stressed that displacement threatens children’s rights to safety, education and health under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

As of Dec. 15, more than 420,000 people — including 96,000 children — have been displaced. Over 1,000 schools remain closed, disrupting learning for 240,000 students and nearly 9,800 teachers.