In the midst of intensifying military clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border, Cambodians around the world have launched a powerful wave of protests condemning what they call Thai military aggression. From Seoul to Sydney, Cambodian expatriates and citizens have united in an unprecedented display of solidarity to defend their homeland’s sovereignty.
Ouch Borith Urges National Unity Amid Crisis
During the Thnot d’Or Awards Ceremony held in Phnom Penh, Cambodian Senate First Vice-President Ouch Borith delivered a passionate speech urging unity across political and religious lines. His message: Cambodia must stand united as one Khmer nation in the face of external threats.
“We are all Khmer,” Borith declared. “Regardless of our politics or faith, our duty is to protect the motherland together.”
A seasoned diplomat, Borith denounced Thailand’s actions as a violation of international agreements and historical treaties. He cited the 1904 Convention, the 1907 Treaty, and the jointly created 1:200,000 scale map between French and Siamese authorities as legal foundations for Cambodia’s internationally recognized borders.
“Thailand’s unilateral redrawing of maps claiming sacred Khmer sites like Preah Vihear Temple is not only unjust, it is illegal,” he said.
Bombardments Spark International Outrage
The situation at the border has escalated quickly, with reports of indiscriminate shelling and airstrikes by the Thai military. These assaults have resulted in numerous civilian casualties and forced thousands to flee their homes.
In response, Cambodians living abroad have mobilized. Massive protests have been reported across Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, the United States, and various European nations. Protesters are chanting slogans such as “Justice for Cambodia” and waving Cambodian flags in defiance of Thai aggression.
“We support our brave soldiers defending our land,” a protester in New Zealand declared, calling the Thai assault “unprovoked and unlawful.”
In South Korea alone, tens of thousands of Cambodian nationals gathered in coordinated demonstrations, with one protester shouting, “Thailand attacked Cambodia first!”
Rare Political Unity Emerges in Cambodia
The Thai offensive has triggered a rare moment of unity among Cambodia’s typically divided political factions. Both ruling party leaders and opposition figures have condemned the attacks, presenting a united front in defense of national integrity.
As patriotic songs echoed through the streets of Melbourne and banners fluttered in Seoul, many overseas Cambodians used the moment to call on the international community to intervene. Protesters demanded an immediate ceasefire, warning that further inaction would only deepen the humanitarian crisis.
“Our Sovereignty Is Not Negotiable”
While Cambodia lacks the military might of its neighbor, the emotional power of its diaspora is reverberating around the world. Protesters praised frontline soldiers as heroes, vowing to continue global demonstrations until the aggression ends.
Organizers confirmed that more rallies are scheduled in the coming days across Germany, France, Canada, and the United Kingdom, signaling a growing tide of global condemnation.
“Our sovereignty is not negotiable,” said one activist. “The world must not ignore this invasion of a peaceful, smaller nation.”
