ASEAN Observers Inspect Disputed Border as Tens of Thousands Still Displaced

PHNOM PENH, May 26, 2026 (KPT) — Defence officials say ASEAN observers have inspected a disputed frontier area in Banteay Meanchey province, where Thai military activity has restricted access and continues to prevent Cambodian families from returning home.

The mission, facilitated Tuesday by the Cambodian Liaison Group and led by Lieutenant General Phat Vibolsopheak, brought the ASEAN Observer Team to Boeung Trakuan in Thma Puok district.

Officials said Thai forces had installed barbed wire and shipping containers inside Cambodian territory, blocking villagers from resettling.

The inspection underscored the urgency for the Cambodia–Thailand Joint Boundary Commission to begin land demarcation “as soon as possible,” in line with commitments under the December 2025 General Border Committee statement and the October 2025 peace declaration.

Defence officials said the aim was to ensure citizens could return “safely, peacefully and with dignity.”

The ministry reaffirmed its “firm and unwavering commitment” to implementing agreements designed to restore peace, stability and normalisation along the frontier.

Authorities reported that more than 610,000 civilians displaced by clashes since late 2025 have returned, but 30,934 remain uprooted — including nearly 16,000 women and over 10,000 children.

The restrictions and damaged infrastructure continue to hinder resettlement, stressing that Cambodia will pursue peaceful resolution through legal and diplomatic channels.