PHNOM PENH, December 19, 2025 — UN Human Rights Chief H.E. Volker Türk has issued a stern warning regarding the escalation of hostilities along the border, emphasizing that the widening conflict poses a grave threat to non-combatants. The warning centers on the urgent need for both nations to strictly adhere to International Humanitarian Law Cambodia-Thailand as military operations move into populated areas.
In a press release issued by the Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) on December 18, the UN official highlighted that the use of air strikes and heavy weaponry near civilian centers raises “serious concerns” regarding the safety of the population.
Core Principles of International Humanitarian Law: Cambodia-Thailand Hostilities
H.E. Volker Türk underscored that the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure is not merely a preference but a “paramount” requirement under global statutes. To ensure that International Humanitarian Law Cambodia-Thailand is upheld, the UN Rights Chief reminded all parties of the three fundamental pillars of engagement:
- Distinction: Forces must always differentiate between legitimate military targets and civilian sites.
- Necessity and Proportionality: Any military action must be weighed against the potential harm to civilians, ensuring that the force used is not excessive.
- Precautionary Measures: Military commanders must take all necessary steps to avoid or minimize civilian casualties and damage to civilian objects.
“Under international humanitarian law, the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure is paramount,” Türk stated, calling for immediate restraint to prevent further loss of life.
Urgent Call for Evacuation of Casino Sites
A specific point of concern in the UN’s briefing was the plight of civilians of various nationalities currently trapped in casino buildings and border sites under fire. H.E. Volker Türk called for the immediate creation of safe corridors to allow these individuals to be evacuated from areas experiencing active air strikes and shelling.
A Return to the Kuala Lumpur Peace Agreement
The UN Human Rights Chief urged an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomatic channels. He specifically pointed to the Kuala Lumpur Peace Agreement as the necessary framework for resolving the dispute without further bloodshed.
The OHCHR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights) has offered its full assistance to support confidence-building measures between the two nations, ensuring that the protection of human life remains the highest priority as the world watches the unfolding situation.