Cambodian Analysts Accuse UN Rights Expert of Ignoring Thai Border Abuses

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov. 3, 2025) — Cambodian analysts and officials have accused U.N. Special Rapporteur on human rights in Cambodia Vitit Muntarbhorn of applying a “double standard” by remaining silent on alleged abuses committed by Thai military forces during recent border clashes.

The criticism follows reports that Thai forces detained 18 Cambodian soldiers, fired on civilians and used cluster munitions inside Cambodian territory. Analysts and officials said Muntarbhorn, a Thai national, has not publicly addressed the allegations, prompting frustration among Cambodian civil society and government figures.

Geopolitical analyst Yang Peou told KPT English that Thai armed forces had “violated international law, the Geneva Conventions, the cluster munitions convention and humanitarian law regarding prisoners of war.”

He accused Muntarbhorn of ignoring serious abuses, including alleged sexual violence against Cambodian workers. “It is brutal, it is cruel, and it is a war crime against humanity,” Peou said.

Pa Ponnarada, spokesperson for the Cambodian Human Rights Committee, said the rapporteur has been “very silent” despite repeated government statements condemning Thai actions.

He noted that Thai forces allegedly used F-16s and cluster bombs, while continuing to detain Cambodian soldiers. “He raises deep concern over Cambodia,” he said, “but regarding Thai armed forces, he prefers to stay in his comfort zone, no reporting, no urging and no condemnation.”

Youk Chhang, executive director of the Documentation Center of Cambodia, added that Muntarbhorn’s recent remarks “offered nothing of real substance,” reiterating only basic U.N. principles without advancing peace.

Senate President Hun Sen also faulted the rapporteur for overlooking Thai violations while continuing to issue frequent assessments of Cambodia’s human rights situation.

Cambodian officials said the silence undermines the credibility of the U.N. mandate and risks emboldening further abuses along the border.

They urged the United Nations to apply equal standards and address violations committed by all parties, warning that selective reporting damages trust in international justice mechanisms.