Issue Brief on “Role of ASEAN in Mediating the Thailand-Cambodia Conflict”

The border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia that erupted on 24 July 2025 marked the most serious armed confrontation in Southeast Asia in nearly fifteen years. The fighting resulted in around 100 casualties and displaced between 127,000 and 400,000 civilians, highlighting the humanitarian and security risks posed by unresolved border disputes in the region[1]. Thailand stated that Cambodian forces targeted Thai soldiers near the Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple[2] on 24 July, which led to retaliatory attacks by both sides and civilian losses. Cambodia, however, accused Thailand of launching unprovoked artillery attacks. Diplomatic relations deteriorated rapidly, with Thailand recalling its ambassador from Cambodia and announcing plans to expel the Cambodian ambassador following a landmine incident at the border. Amid escalating tensions, attention turned to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its ability to manage regional crises.

Historically, the roots of Thailand- Cambodia conflict lie mainly in historical claims over territory, especially around the Preah Vihear temple. Cambodia argues that the temple and surrounding land belongs to it based on 1907 map drawn during French colonial rule, when Cambodia was under France. In 1962, the International Court of Justice ruled that the temple itself belongs to Cambodia, and Cambodia sees this decision as final and legally binding. Thailand, however, has argued that the map used was unclear and that some nearby areas were not properly decided by the court. Many Thai nationalists believe that the land around temple belongs to Thailand. Both countries link the area to national pride and historical identity, the dispute has remained sensitive and occasionally tense.

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