03/08/2026
Following media reports concerning the End of Mission Statement issued at the conclusion of the visit to Cambodia by Mr. Tom Andrews, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Cambodia, during 20–31 July 2026, which references Thailand in the context of the Thailand–Cambodia situation, Thailand would like to make the following clarifications:
Thailand notes the aforementioned Statement and wishes to reiterate that the conflict between the two countries, resulting in various impacts, was not initiated by Thailand, but resulted from indiscriminate attacks by the Cambodian side targeting civilian areas in Thailand.
Regarding the Special Rapporteur’s reference to the alleged 650,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Cambodia, the fact remains that a portion of the figure were Cambodians residing in areas Thailand previously opened up as temporary shelters in the late 1970s as part of its humanitarian assistance. However, following improvements to their situation, these individuals did not return to Cambodia despite repeated protests formally lodged by the Thai side with the Cambodian side. Therefore, they constitute individuals who had encroached on Thai territory and do not fall within the definition of an IDP.
Thailand is of the view that the right of return should not be exploited for political purposes or propaganda, but upheld alongside genuine humanitarian concerns and principles. In this regard, the Cambodian Government has the responsibility to care for and protect its citizens affected by conflict resulting in internal displacement within Cambodia, particularly concerning their right to life and safety. Cambodia also has an obligation to ensure that such individuals, especially the vulnerable ones, have access to adequate shelter, standard of living, food, clean water, sanitation and essential public health services.
With regard to Cambodian migrant workers returning from Thailand, which the Special Rapporteur alleged that the number amounted to 900,000 persons, in fact, the Cambodian workers who returned home included both legally employed workers and those who had entered and worked in Thailand illegally. These workers returned to Cambodia voluntarily following calls made by the Cambodian Government itself. The Thai Government has always stated its commitment to ensuring the safety of Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand and has never had a policy to expel these migrant workers from the country.
Thailand reaffirms its commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, as well as respect for international humanitarian law. Thailand has consistently cooperated with the Special Procedures under the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) and has already provided relevant explanations to the said mechanism, which have been officially recorded. This reflects Thailand’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and the protection of human rights in accordance with its international obligations.
Thailand is of the view that the Special Procedures under the United Nations Human Rights Council should uphold the principles of independence, impartiality and objectivity, while taking into consideration information from credible and verifiable sources, as well as facts and perspectives from all sides in a comprehensive and fair manner. This is essential to ensuring that human rights assessments are balanced and consistent with the mandates of the Special Procedures.
Thailand is ready to look forward and rebuild relations with Cambodia. However, such efforts require genuine and sincere cooperation from Cambodia. Both parties should work together to create a conducive environment through the strict implementation of the Joint Statement of 27 December 2025, including the reduction of tensions and refraining from actions or allegations that may be provocative, create misunderstandings, or undermine mutual trust. This would pave the way for addressing issues relating to border security through peaceful means and continued engagement through bilateral mechanisms.
Source: https://www.mfa.go.th/en/content/statement-reg-un-special-rapporteur-stmt-hr-cam-en
