Europe Asia News

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Türk said that the expansion of hostilities between Thailand and Cambodia, and the use of air strikes and heavy weapons in and around populated areas, raise serious concerns regarding the protection of civilians.

Calling for an immediate cessation of the fighting, Türk warned: “Reports that areas around villages and cultural sites are being struck by fighter jets, drones and artillery fire are deeply concerning to me. Under international humanitarian law, the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure is of paramount importance.”

Türk stated that since the resumption of fighting on December 7, 18 civilians have been killed in Cambodia and one civilian in Thailand, adding that the attacks are increasingly taking place farther from the border and into each other’s territories.

He also noted that victims of human trafficking of various nationalities are being forced into fraud at scam centers in Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, and are now at even greater risk due to the fighting, calling for the evacuation of those being held there.

Pointing out that the clashes have forced around 750,000 people living in border areas to flee their homes, Türk said: “Ensuring the safety of civilians and enabling their safe return home is vital.”

Türk also reminded Cambodia and Thailand of their obligations under the Ottawa Convention, which bans the use of anti-personnel landmines.