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Cambodian workers face violence and threats amid escalating border tensions with Thailand

August 26, 2025

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have escalated into armed border conflict, triggering a wave of nationalism that has resulted in violence against Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand. Right-wing Thai groups are physically threatening and attacking Cambodian workers, causing many to flee Thailand or disguise themselves by using thanakha cream to appear Burmese. Despite official warnings against violence from Thai authorities, the threats continue, with some right-wing groups conducting door-to-door searches and construction site raids targeting Cambodians.

Who is affected

  • Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand (approximately 500,000 permit holders)
  • Cambodian political refugees in Thailand
  • Thai employers and businesses in service, agricultural, and construction sectors
  • Thai fruit orchard and sugarcane industries in eastern provinces
  • Thai and Cambodian soldiers involved in the border conflict
  • Thai consumers potentially affected by Cambodian product boycotts

What action is being taken

  • Cambodian workers are leaving Thailand in large numbers
  • Some Cambodian workers are using thanakha cream to disguise themselves as Myanmar nationals
  • Right-wing Thai groups are conducting door-to-door searches and construction site raids targeting Cambodians
  • Thai officials are monitoring Cambodian workers' activities and asking employers to report disturbances
  • The Cambodian Ministry of Labor has called for a boycott of Thai products
  • Thai police and government officials are issuing warnings against violence toward Cambodian workers

Why it matters

  • The exodus of Cambodian workers threatens Thailand's agricultural and construction sectors, particularly the upcoming harvest seasons for fruit orchards and sugarcane
  • The violence damages Thailand's global reputation and international relations
  • Human rights violations against migrant workers raise humanitarian concerns
  • The situation escalates tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, affecting ASEAN regional stability
  • The targeting of migrants perpetuates stereotypes and fuels anti-migrant sentiment
  • The economic impact could be significant for both countries due to labor shortages and product boycotts

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Global Voices

Cambodian workers face violence and threats amid escalating border tensions with Thailand