Displacement Crisis
In a detailed report following his official mission to Cambodia, Tom Andrews, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in the country, noted that nearly 650,000 Cambodians were displaced by the end of 2025. This mass displacement stemmed from the armed conflict with Thailand. Of these, over 20,000 individuals remain displaced, living in makeshift shelters and unable to return to their original homes. These areas have become controlled by Thai military forces, leaving locals in prolonged uncertainty.
Andrews emphasized the need for greater diplomatic cooperation between Thailand and Cambodia to support the safe return of these displaced civilians. The 2025 ceasefire agreement specifically includes provisions for displaced individuals to go back to their homes without obstacles. However, progress on enforcing this clause has been minimal. He described the ongoing situation as a severe humanitarian crisis, with thousands still awaiting any resolution or assistance.
Cyber Scam and Human Trafficking
The UN Rapporteur also voiced serious concerns about the scale and impact of cyber scams and human trafficking in Cambodia. While the government has taken steps to dismantle some criminal networks, Andrews highlighted that senior officials involved in these operations remain largely untouched. He pointed out that many of the operations are now heavily guarded, with individuals subjected to torture and forced labor inside these fortified scam facilities.
Amnesty International’s June report echoed these concerns, noting that despite Cambodia’s anti-scam campaigns, most criminal enterprises remain intact. Moreover, victims are not receiving adequate protection or support after being released. Many are left without proper resources to rebuild their lives or access justice.
Political Rights and Upcoming Elections
Andrews called on the Cambodian government to safeguard the rights of political opponents and expand civic freedoms in preparation for upcoming elections in 2027 and 2028. He criticized the current state of affairs, where arbitrary arrests and restrictions on free expression and peaceful assembly remain common. These practices, he argued, undermine democratic values and the rights of the people.
He stressed that the government must promote an open civic space and ensure press freedom is upheld. Andrews expressed optimism about the potential for Cambodia to improve its human rights landscape and meet its international commitments, even amid challenges such as the ongoing border conflict and the cyber scam crisis.