Report Cambodia Prepares to Take Border Dispute with Thailand to ICJ

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In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, Cambodia has announced its intentions to bring its ongoing border dispute with Thailand before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This decision, reported by Cambodian local media on Wednesday, challenges Thailand's preference for resolving the matter through existing bilateral mechanisms.

 

Prime Minister Hun Manet took to Facebook to share a document detailing the establishment of a committee tasked with preparing the case for the ICJ. The committee is headed by Prak Sokhonn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and will focus on disputed regions, including the Emerald Triangle (Mom Bei) and several ancient temple sites like Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Tauch, and Ta Krabei.

 

The decision to move forward with an international legal approach followed a joint session of Cambodia's legislature, which on June 2 voted in favour of taking the dispute to the ICJ. This development marks a firm commitment from the Cambodian government to seek a legal resolution to the conflict, despite Thailand's suggestions for a diplomatic negotiation within the established Joint Boundary Commission (JBC). A meeting of this commission is set for June 14 in Phnom Penh, creating a focal point for further diplomatic dialogue between the two nations.

 

The high-level committee formed by Cambodia will include legal experts and advisors. It is responsible for compiling evidence and managing the ICJ proceedings, demonstrating Cambodia's proactive stance in seeking a definitive resolution. The committee will also select international legal advisors to aid in the proceedings, ensuring the case is handled with the requisite expertise at the Hague-based court.

 

Former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen also endorsed this move by sharing the announcement on his own Facebook page. The Khmer Times has reported that Cambodia's dedication to involving the ICJ reflects a strategic decision to leverage international law in addressing complex territorial disputes, hoping for a clear and binding resolution.

 

This decision is watched closely by international observers, as it not only impacts bilateral relations between Cambodia and Thailand but also serves as a test case for international territorial dispute resolution. The outcome could have significant implications for regional diplomacy in Southeast Asia.

 

As both nations prepare for the impending JBC meeting, the world will be observing how this dispute unfolds, with hopes that a peaceful resolution can be achieved, whether through legal proceedings or renewed negotiations.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-06-11