Cambodia Asks UN Human Rights to Take Action Against Thailand’s Invasion and Looting

Chhay Sophal

Phnom Penh (6 January 2026): The Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) has filed a complaint to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR), demanding prompt and firm action for violations of the right to housing and the right to private property of Cambodian citizens caused by the invasion, home destruction, property looting and forced evictions made by the invading Thai military forces.

Thai soldiers broke into and invaded citizens’ homes, stole private property such as motorcycles, tractors and other materials from civilians in the villages of Prey Chan, Chouk Chey and Boeung Trakuan in Banteay Meanchey province, and in several other areas in Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey and Pursat provinces within the Cambodian sovereignty and territorial integrity, according the CHRC’s press released obtained Tuesday.

In this urgent appeal, the CHRC called upon the UNHCHR to, examine and address the impact of Thailand’s violations and demolitions on the right to adequate housing and right to own property in Cambodian; Engage with relevant UN mechanisms and States to seek immediate cessation of forced evictions, destruction of home and denial of return, the press release dated Monday read.

“Call upon Thailand to withdraw its forces from Cambodia territory, halt all demolition of civilians housing, and ensure a safe and dignified return of displaced Cambodian civilians…”, the release continued adding that Cambodia urges Thailand to provide reparations, including compensation and guarantees of non-repetition, for the affected Cambodian victims.