Unpacking the Bitter Border Dispute: The Deep-Rooted Feud Between Thailand and Cambodia

The border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has deep historical roots, going back over a century to colonial maps. Recently, tensions have flared up again, not just due to old disagreements, but also because of a personal fallout between two influential political figures: Hun Sen of Cambodia and Thaksin Shinawatra of Thailand.

Once close allies, Hun Sen, now 72, and Thaksin, 76, have seen their friendship deteriorate. For years, Hun Sen supported Thaksin and his family throughout their struggles against Thailand’s military. In fact, after being ousted from power, Thaksin and his sister Yingluck were welcomed by Hun Sen in Cambodia, where Thaksin even served as an economic adviser.

However, their relationship took a turn for the worse in recent months. Analysts believe that their personal disputes are fueling the violence along their nations’ borders. Both men have left their official positions, but their influence remains significant. Hun Sen ruled Cambodia for nearly 40 years before his son took over, while Thaksin’s daughter, Paetongtarn, became Thailand’s prime minister last year.

The depth of their feud became apparent when Hun Sen leaked a phone conversation involving Paetongtarn. In the call, she addressed him as “uncle” and expressed her willingness to assist him, making comments that raised eyebrows, particularly towards a senior Thai military commander. This incident led to backlash in Thailand, with critics accusing her of prioritizing family ties over national interests, resulting in her suspension from office pending an ethics investigation.

Hun Sen’s motivations for turning on Thaksin are unclear. He has accused Thaksin of betrayal and hinted at further damaging revelations. Thaksin has publicly expressed his hurt over the situation, marking the end of their friendship.

Some analysts suggest that Hun Sen might be trying to boost domestic support for his son by stirring up nationalism. Others point to Thailand’s recent efforts to combat human trafficking networks as a potential source of tension. These “scam compounds,” where trafficked individuals are coerced into committing fraud, have become a troubling issue across Southeast Asia, especially in Cambodia.

The shifts in power dynamics are evident as Hun Sen continues to solidify his authority in Cambodia, practically eliminating opposition voices. The recent breakdown in diplomacy has escalated with Thailand recalling its ambassador and expressing intent to expel Cambodia’s envoy.

The ongoing conflict has become a matter not just of territory but personal vendettas. As Thaksin faces mounting scrutiny and a weakened position, he finds himself in a precarious spot. During a recent visit to communities affected by the border clashes, a local confronted him, questioning his loyalty and allowing Cambodian aggression.

Pavin Chachavalpongpun, a professor at Kyoto University, states that territorial disputes are always complex. No country would willingly give up sovereignty. Furthermore, the personal rivalry between Hun Sen and Thaksin contributes to an already unpredictable situation.

As the conflict progresses, it raises questions about the stability of both nations and the implications of such high-stakes personal feuds on international relations.

For more detail on the background and context of this ongoing border dispute, you can check out this detailed analysis.

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