Thais and Cambodians Hesitant to Return Home After Ceasefire

A fragile ceasefire has been established between Thailand and Cambodia, halting weeks of violent clashes along their border. Despite this development, many displaced individuals are hesitant to return home due to lingering fears of renewed conflict.

At a university in Surin, Thailand, which has been repurposed as a shelter, Kanlaya Somjettana, a 21-year-old homemaker, expressed her reluctance to go back. As the ceasefire was announced on December 28, 2023, some evacuees attempted to return home the following day, but many remained cautious. “I hope this ceasefire will last long,” Kanlaya told AFP, noting that she would not return until authorities confirm safety. The evacuation center still housed hundreds of individuals, although it was less crowded than before.

On the Cambodian side, So Choeun, who is expecting a child soon, shared her concerns. She is currently sheltering with family in makeshift tents at a Buddhist pagoda in Banteay Meanchey province. “Despite the ceasefire, we dare not return home yet. We are still frightened,” she said, indicating a widespread apprehension among those displaced by the conflict.

Officials from both countries reported that the ceasefire was holding, but no all-clear notice had been issued. The recent violence has been severe, resulting in at least 47 deaths and displacing over 1 million individuals. Previous skirmishes, including a five-day conflict in July, had similarly devastating effects, leading to distrust among those affected.

Concerns of Renewed Violence Persist

Many displaced individuals are unwilling to take the risk of returning home. Saichon Wongpitak, a 38-year-old rice and cassava farmer, stated her intention to return to her home in Thailand’s Sisaket province, but acknowledged the fear that still lingers. “I talked to our neighbor who said there was no gunfire since yesterday,” she explained. Despite her hope for stability, she expressed skepticism about the ceasefire’s longevity. “I live on the border, and what I have learned is not to trust Cambodia,” she added.

Under the terms of the truce, both countries have agreed to cease hostilities, halt troop movements, and facilitate the return of civilians. Furthermore, Thailand committed to returning 18 Cambodian soldiers captured during the July clashes within 72 hours.

From another camp in Banteay Meanchey, Kot Ngik, a 43-year-old resident, voiced her cautious optimism regarding the ceasefire. “I am thankful for the truce since it may allow children to soon return to school,” she stated. Nevertheless, she remains wary, saying, “We don’t trust the Thai military yet.”

While some evacuees are still too fearful to leave their shelters, there are signs of hope. So Choeun noted a reduction in gunfire, saying, “Yesterday morning, I could hear loud bangs, but I have not heard it since 12 PM yesterday. This is a good sign.”

As the situation develops, the apprehension felt by many displaced individuals highlights the ongoing challenges in rebuilding trust and ensuring lasting peace along the border.