The 3rd Special Meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) on December 27, 2025, marked a historic turning point in the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict. However, as the two nations move toward a permanent ceasefire in 2026, a new type of threat has emerged: the viral rumor.
Following the formal directive issued by the Ministry of Information on January 3, 2026, it is clear that “Peace” is no longer just about stopping bullets—it is about stopping the spread of misinformation.
1. The 72-Hour Rule: Why Seconds Count Online
The recent Joint Statement established a fragile 72-hour monitoring period to verify compliance with the ceasefire. In this high-stakes window, information travels faster than military orders.
- The Trigger Effect: A single unverified video showing “troop movements” or a “clash” can go viral in minutes.
- The Defensive Reflex: If a field commander sees a fake report of an incursion, they may react defensively to protect their position. This “preemptive” action can trigger a real firefight, shattering the ceasefire based on a lie.
- The Escalation Cycle:
2. Strategic Diplomacy: Creating a “Favourable Environment”
Diplomatic trust cannot be built in a chaotic information environment. The GBC agreement highlights the need for a “favourable environment for peaceful dialogue.” When social media is flooded with “deepfakes” or provocative insults, it creates intense domestic pressure on leaders. Instead of focusing on technical demining or border demarcation through the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC), officials are forced to spend their time debunking rumors. For a permanent ceasefire to hold, the public must allow diplomats the “quiet space” needed to work.
3. The Ministry’s 5 Mandates for 2026
To protect the peace process, the Ministry of Information has outlined five non-negotiable rules for the public:
| Mandate | Strategic Purpose |
| Trust Official Sources | Prevents “info-scams” from clouding the truth provided by the GDI and Ministry of National Defence. |
| Prohibit Fabrications | Stops the creation of “clickbait” that jeopardizes national security. |
| Ethical Conduct | Reduces the racial hostility that fuels “nationalist friction” on both sides. |
| Mandatory Fact-Checking | Forces content creators to prioritize accuracy over “views.” |
| AI/Deepfake Ban | Specifically targets the most dangerous technology used to incite anger and confusion. |
Conclusion: Safeguarding “Santepheap” in the Digital Age
In 2026, information integrity is the “invisible shield” protecting our borders. By refusing to engage with unverified reports and relying solely on official government channels, every citizen contributes to the success of the ceasefire. Peace is a shared responsibility—one that begins with a single click.