Why do Thailand and Cambodia have border disputes?

Current Situation (as of 2025)

After the ICJ’s supplementary ruling in 2013, which affirmed Cambodia’s control over the entire area near the Preah Vihear temple, the situation has calmed down.

Why do Thailand and Cambodia have border disputes? Photo

The two countries are trying to resolve the dispute through bilateral and ASEAN negotiations, however, the issue remains politically sensitive and could flare up if provoked. Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have historically stemmed mainly from territorial disputes, especially around the Preah Vihear temple – an ancient site of great cultural, religious and strategic value to both countries.

Here are the main reasons for tensions between Thailand and Cambodia:

Preah Vihear Photo image Ruth Michelle

Dispute around the Preah Vihear temple

Preah Vihear temple is an ancient Hindu temple from the 11th century, located on the cliffs of Dângrêk mountain, near the Thai-Cambodian border.

 In 1962, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that the temple belonged to Cambodia, although the access road to the temple was on the Thai side.

This ruling displeased Thailand, especially nationalist groups in Thailand.

Border dispute not yet clearly defined

After the ICJ ruling, the area around the temple (~4.6 km²) was still not clearly defined.

Both sides deployed troops, built infrastructure such as roads, guard posts, etc., causing the conflict to escalate into armed clashes at times (2008–2011).

Armed conflict (2008–2011)

Since 2008, when Cambodia proposed UNESCO to recognize Preah Vihear as a World Heritage Site, Thailand objected because it believed that this affected its territorial sovereignty.

 Several small skirmishes have occurred between the two countries' armies, causing casualties among soldiers and civilians, forcing thousands to evacuate.

Internal politics fuel the conflict

Both sides have used the border issue to serve domestic politics, especially in times of political instability.

Politicians or nationalist groups have promoted anti-neighbor rhetoric, increasing tensions.

Colonial historical legacy

Border demarcation maps drawn during the French colonial period (when Cambodia was a French colony) are used as evidence, but Thailand does not fully recognize them.

This has led to inconsistencies in maps and legality, prolonging the dispute.