Dated: 28th July 2025, Cambodia
Endorsed by: 110 Cambodia civil society Organizations
We, the undersigned civil society organizations, are deeply concerned about the escalating armed conflict along the Cambodia–Thailand border. The intensifying violence has already resulted in unacceptable human suffering, including the tragic loss of life, displacement of civilians, and growing insecurity in affected communities, as well as threats to world heritage sites and the environment.
As civil society actors committed to promoting peace, good governance, labor rights, social justice, social development, health service delivery, democracy, human rights, freedom of expression, environmental protection, the rule of law, and other vital sectors, we firmly denounce the use of force and military confrontation. We call on all parties to urgently exercise restraint, prioritize diplomacy, and resolve differences through peaceful and lawful means.
In the spirit of regional solidarity, human dignity, and international cooperation, we jointly urge the following:
1. Immediate De-escalation and Ceasefire
We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and military actions along the border. All parties must refrain from actions that could further inflame tensions and endanger lives. De-escalation is crucial to preventing a broader humanitarian crisis and restoring stability for communities on both sides.
2. Commitment to Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution
We urge both governments to reopen channels for constructive, inclusive, and sustained dialogue—both bilaterally and through ASEAN and international mediation. Peaceful diplomacy, rooted in mutual respect, historical understanding, and a commitment to good-neighborly relations, is the only durable solution.
3. Civilian Protection and Human Rights Respect
We appeal to the UN, ASEAN, and the broader international community to act swiftly and collaboratively to protect civilians and uphold human rights. To ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of affected populations—particularly women, children, the elderly, and world heritage sites—all parties must adhere to international humanitarian and human rights law.
To facilitate unhindered humanitarian access, protect displaced individuals, and prevent further civilian harm, we call on ASEAN and the UN to implement human rights monitoring mechanisms and engage with both governments. It is crucial for regional and global actors to ensure that military operations comply with the principles of necessity, distinction, and proportionality.
Additionally, we appeal to the UN Human Rights Council, OHCHR, ASEAN bodies, and relevant special procedures conduct prompt assessments and provide moral and technical support for rights protection and de-escalation. The rights and safety of those living along the border can only be secured, and lasting peace can only be achieved through a strong commitment to international legal standards and cooperative action.
4. Upholding the Rules-Based Order and International Laws
We urge all parties to fully uphold international law, including the UN Charter, the ASEAN Charter, and all relevant treaties and international rulings, in addressing the ongoing territorial dispute. Armed confrontation must never replace the rule of law. We call on states to commit to a peaceful resolution through international legal mechanisms that ensure justice, fairness, human rights, and long-term peace and security. Now is the time to reinforce global norms, not undermine them. Let international law guide the path to peace.
5. Using International Legal Mechanisms to Resolve the Border Conflict
We call upon Thailand and Cambodia to reaffirm their commitment to peaceful conflict resolution by bringing unresolved border disputes before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and other unbiased international tribunals. In contrast to violence, this would show leadership and a commitment to the rule of law.
6. Strengthening ASEAN’s Function in Preventing and Resolving Conflicts
We urge ASEAN to fulfill its role in facilitating mediation and fostering trust among member states. A proactive and principled ASEAN is essential to prevent further deterioration of peace and regional unity.
We call on governments and leaders to rise above provocation and nationalism, choosing instead the path of peace, legal order, and regional cooperation. The future of our people and generations to come depends on this decision.
7. Reaffirmation and Enforcement of the Paris Peace Agreements (PPA)
We urge all signatories of the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements, especially Thailand, to reaffirm their commitments to these international treaties, particularly in relation to Cambodia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. These agreements are essential for maintaining peace and regional stability. Additionally, we call for the establishment of an independent monitoring mechanism to oversee the resolution of border disputes and to ensure compliance with both the spirit and the letter of the Paris Peace Agreements.
8. Concrete Actions to Stop Violence, Fight Hatred, and Restore Peace, Trust, and Understanding Across Boundaries
We urge governments, ASEAN, civil society, the media, educators, religious leaders, international partners, and other relevant stakeholders to collaborate in ending violence, combating division, and promoting trust among people, societal healing, and peace. A task force should be established to monitor hate speech and disinformation while encouraging a “voice for peace” through creative messaging. Social media platforms must improve moderation to effectively tackle these issues. Relevant stakeholders should advocate for reconciliation, and governments must fairly enforce laws against incitement and discrimination.
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