The conflict along the Thai-Cambodian border has resulted in numerous casualties, displaced residents, caused significant damage to heritage sites and left unexploded bombs scattered across the region. The conflict poses a serious threat to people’s safety, and has caused panic and deep psychological trauma.
Although I have lived in Taiwan for more than 20 years, as a Cambodian immigrant, my emotional ties to my homeland and loved ones remain strong. I closely follow the events in Cambodia and hope that the Taiwanese media can report on the conflict objectively.
Since the start of the dispute, media reports have tended to be one-sided, which can inflame ethnic tensions or cause people who lack a full understanding of the situation to become hostile toward Cambodians.
Several of my Thai and Cambodian friends in Taiwan say the cultures and lifestyles of people in both countries are similar, and that their interactions are generally friendly. No one wants the border conflict to create hatred between the nations. That is why journalists must verify facts, and uphold the standards and social responsibility expected of mass media, to avoid creating more misunderstanding and fear.
There must also be an immediate ceasefire to prevent escalation.
Since the conflict broke out on July 24, many civilians who live or do business on the border have been forced to flee, including pregnant women, new mothers and infants. Seeing them running for safety, trying to protect their children, is heartbreaking. Many displaced people are staying in refugee shelters, having only managed to bring one or two pieces of clothing.
It is the rainy season in Cambodia and Thailand, and although the refugees are living in tents, heavy rain can still pour inside. Given the chaotic environment, and the mental and emotional distress, the risk of disease or sickness is high. Both governments need to act swiftly and implement emergency measures to assist the people living along the border.
Cambodia went through a tragic civil war brought about by the Khmer Rouge, making the border conflict all the more worrying, given the suffering that war brings to women and children. Every time a soldier dies in battle, a family is shattered — parents lose a son, children lose a father and wives are left to shoulder the burdens of financial support and caregiving.
A few days ago, a video of a soldier’s funeral showed his wife holding a baby in her arms, with two children aged three or four standing beside her. Thinking about how they would live from now on, I could not stop myself from crying.
War might help politicians gain power, but for ordinary people, it brings nothing but harm. The population is left to live in fear, pain and trauma. Such conflicts also damage the environment, destabilize society and stall economic development.
As a mother and a Cambodian, all I hope for is that people living along the border can have a safe and peaceful life, and that the people of both countries do not turn against each other. I urge both governments to stop the fighting, provide emergency aid to displaced people and offer continued support to the families of fallen soldiers.
Rumdul (a pseudonym) is an immigrant from Cambodia who has lived in Taiwan for more than 20 years.
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