Cambodia highlights human rights cooperation with UN, raises border concerns

PHNOM PENH, April 3, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s human rights body has reaffirmed cooperation with the United Nations while voicing concerns over alleged violations along the border with Thailand, officials said Thursday.

The Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) said its vice-chairman, Keo Sothie, met Matilda Bogner, country representative of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, in Phnom Penh on April 2 to strengthen collaboration on rights issues.

Sothie outlined the CHRC’s role as an advisory body to the government, handling complaints, investigations, awareness campaigns and monitoring conditions in prisons and rehabilitation centres.

He said the committee also prepares national reports on the implementation of international treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

The CHRC, he added, provides free legal assistance to vulnerable groups and represents Cambodia at the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights.

But Sothie also raised concerns over alleged Thai military actions at the border, citing unilateral closures, use of heavy weaponry, property damage including at Preah Vihear Temple, and displacement affecting tens of thousands of civilians.

Bogner welcomed the information and praised cooperation between the CHRC and OHCHR. She noted the appointment of Thomas Andrews as the new UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Cambodia, succeeding Vitit Muntarbhorn, and said the UN office had been monitoring conditions on the ground, including visits to displaced communities.

She requested continued support for renewing its memorandum of understanding with Cambodia, due to expire at the end of 2026.

Sothie expressed appreciation for UN engagement and reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to promoting human rights and resolving disputes peacefully in line with international law.