In any society, disputes are inevitable. But how they are resolved reflects our values as people and as nations. Let us begin with a simple example.

Imagine two people are standing in front of a car, both claiming that they are the rightful owner. One says he bought it with his hard-earned money; the other insists it was passed down through his family. They argue loudly, pointing fingers, showing photos, receipts, and calling on friends to take sides. Emotions rise. Tensions grow. But no matter how long they argue, or how passionately they defend their claims, the truth remains: words alone cannot resolve the dispute.

The only way to determine ownership is to go to an authorized legal body—such as the vehicle registration office, the court, or a licensing authority. There, evidence can be verified, ownership can be established, and peace can be restored. Justice, not emotion, decides the truth.

Now shift this scenario to the current situation between Cambodia and Thailand, where both nations claim sovereignty over disputed land, including the area around the Ta Moan Thom Temple. Just like the two individuals fighting over a car, each side has its version of history, maps, and narratives.

But history alone, without legal adjudication, leads only to conflict.

Cambodia has consistently expressed its willingness to go to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or accept mediation through ASEAN or neutral third parties. This is not a sign of weakness—it is a sign of trust in law, order, and international norms.

Yet Thailand refuses.
They prefer to handle the matter bilaterally, behind closed doors, away from neutral judgment. This raises an important question: If one truly believes they are right, why fear the court?

To the Global Community

– Peace cannot be built through force or silence—it is built through justice and law.

– The ICJ exists for situations exactly like this: where national interests clash and impartial judgment is needed.

– We urge the international community to encourage both sides to bring the dispute before a competent international authority.

Let us not allow history to repeat itself with further violence and loss. Let truth and justice—not power—determine the outcome.

Cambodia is ready for legal resolution. The question is: who else is?