UN Human Rights Rapporteur for Cambodia Resigns, Citing Health Reasons

GENEVA (Dec. 6, 2025) — Vitit Muntarbhorn, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in Cambodia, has resigned from his post, the UN confirmed Thursday.

“I regret very much to inform you that, due to health reasons, I resign from my position as Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Cambodia. My resignation is effective with this letter of resignation,” Muntarbhorn wrote.

Appointed in 2020, Muntarbhorn said he had “the pleasure of supporting the mandate of the UN Human Rights Council for five years.”

Keo Remy, chair of the Cambodian Human Rights Committee, commented on the resignation, noting he had refrained from sending complaint letters to Muntarbhorn regarding alleged Thai military abuses.

Remy said he was concerned that, as a Thai national, Muntarbhorn could face restrictions or accusations from extremist groups or military officials if he criticized Thailand.

Remy added he had asked the UN to avoid assigning Muntarbhorn to positions in Thailand or neighboring countries related to Cambodia’s human rights reporting, to prevent conflicts.

He praised Muntarbhorn’s expertise and expressed hope he would continue to advocate for human rights in future roles.

“It is regrettable that many talented human resources in Thailand are constrained from serving their nation due to extremist pressures and authoritarian control,” Remy said.

Muntarbhorn’s resignation comes after months of heightened border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand. In a recent statement, he voiced support for confidence-building measures between the two countries, welcomed a July cease-fire, and urged both sides to curb misinformation.

He emphasized that civilians affected by border incidents must receive assistance in line with human rights standards.