Cambodian Expert Urges Sweden to Halt Fighter Jet Sale to Thailand Over Human Rights Concerns

PHNOM PENH,(Aug. 25, 2025)—A leading Cambodian foreign policy expert has called on the Swedish government to immediately suspend its planned sale of Gripen fighter jets and other military aircraft to Thailand, citing concerns over human rights violations and the escalation of border tensions.

Kin Phea, director-general of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said the weapons risk being used to “kill innocents, destroy villages and escalate conflict” between the two neighboring countries.

His remarks follow Thailand’s announcement of a finalized deal to procure Gripen E/F fighter jets from Sweden, including an offset agreement aimed at bolstering Thailand’s domestic defense industry. Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said the acquisition would strengthen national defense and promote technological collaboration.

“How can a nation that champions human rights stand by while its weapons have been used to kill innocents, destroy villages and escalate conflict in a neighboring sovereign state?” Phea said in a statement. “We urge the government of Sweden to conduct a full and transparent review of the human rights implications of arms exports to all parties engaged in conflict.”

Phea reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to international law and the protection of civilians, warning that “history will remember who stood on the side of justice and who profited from destruction.” He added that Sweden must not allow its name and technology to become “tools of oppression and violence.”

Cambodians, he said, stand united in defense of national sovereignty and in mourning for those affected by Thai military aggression. “Money must never come before humanity. Stop the sale. Stand for peace,” he said.

On Aug. 25, Thai and Swedish officials signed the first-phase procurement contract for the Gripen E/F aircraft, along with an Offset Policy Agreement. The signing was witnessed by Sangiampongsa and Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson. Air Chief Marshal Punpakdee Pattanakul, commander of the Royal Thai Air Force, signed on behalf of Thailand.

The Offset Policy includes cooperation in education, technology transfer, agriculture innovation, green transition and cybersecurity, according to Thai officials.

Cambodian officials have accused the Thai military of launching F-16 airstrikes during recent border clashes, including an attack on the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear Temple. The strikes reportedly damaged infrastructure and displaced thousands of civilians.

Sweden has not publicly responded to the concerns raised by Cambodian officials.