On June 18, 2025, thousands of Cambodians gathered in Phnom Penh for a large-scale solidarity march, organized by the government in response to growing border tensions with Thailand. This show of unity followed a deadly incident on May 28, when a Cambodian soldier was killed during a brief clash near a disputed border area.
The march was not a protest, but a carefully coordinated display of national pride and support for Prime Minister Hun Manet’s stance on the issue. Participants waved Cambodian flags, chanted patriotic slogans, and carried portraits of both Hun Manet and his father, former Prime Minister Hun Sen. The message was clear: Cambodians are standing together to protect their land and sovereignty.
The conflict centers on four contested zones along the Thai-Cambodian border. Cambodia has since referred the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), though Thailand rejects ICJ jurisdiction and prefers bilateral talks. In response to the standoff, Cambodia has suspended electricity imports from Thailand, banned Thai movies, and imposed a halt on other Thai products and services.
While the march showcased unity, some analysts suggest the government may be using the dispute to divert public attention from domestic issues, including economic hardship and widespread cybercrime operations.
Further diplomatic discussions are expected in September, but for now, the region remains tense. The June 2025 march was a powerful reminder of how border conflicts can ignite national sentiment and shape regional politics.
This might be the largest gathering we have seen for a long time.
