PHNOM PENH, Cambodia
Cambodia appeals to International Court of Justice for intervention regarding border conflict with Thailand.
After a violent military skirmish last month, Cambodia has taken action by submitting its border dispute with Thailand to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In a Facebook post, Prime Minister Hun Manet announced the move, stating that Cambodia is seeking a resolution in four disputed areas: the site of the recent clash, and three ancient temples.
"We choose international law and peace." Hun Manet declared. Cambodia, he added, only seeks justice, fairness, and clarity in the delineation of its borders with neighboring countries.
Tensions have been escalating between the two nations, with Thailand stiffening border controls and Cambodia ordering its troops to be on "full alert." Moreover, the ban on Thai dramas on TV and in cinemas reflects the rising animosity.
The origins of this row go back to the early 20th century, during the French occupation of Indochina. Since then, the 800-kilometer frontier between the two countries has remained a contentious issue.
In the past, Cambodia has sought help from the ICJ in a territorial dispute over a border temple. The court's verdict determined that the temple belonged to Cambodia; however, Thailand refused to acknowledge the ICJ’s jurisdiction. Since then, this long-standing border conflict has resulted in 28 deaths in the region since 2008.
As of now, the ICJ has confirmed the receipt of Cambodia’s petition but has yet to issue a ruling. The Thai government maintains its stance that the dispute should be resolved bilaterally through their Joint Boundary Commission, established in 2000. However, Thailand does not recognize the ICJ's jurisdiction, a stance shared by many other UN member states.[3][4]
"The politics and general news surrounding war-and-conflicts have led to a significant development, as Cambodia, following a border dispute with Thailand, has presented their case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The prime minister of Cambodia, Hun Manet, expressed his hope for international law and peace, stating that their actions are driven by the desire for justice, fairness, and clarity for their borders."
"The ongoing border issue between Cambodia and Thailand, with roots dating back to the early 20th century, has a profound connection with the realm of war-and-conflicts. Despite the ICJ's involvement in previous discussions, the Thai government remains adamant that the dispute should be addressed bilaterally, and they do not recognize the ICJ's jurisdiction."
