Let the International Court of Justice Decide, Not the Guns
A serious conflict between two nations should always be resolved through peaceful and legal processes, not by the use of arms, this is what responsible leadership demands. In the case of the current Cambodia – Thailand border conflict, one side is requesting cooperation to take issue to the International Court of Justice, while another side is rejecting the offer.
On Monday, June 16, 2025, Mr. Prak Sokhonn Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cambodia reported that the Royal government of Cambodia had officially submitted an official letter to the ICJ, which was received by ICJ Registrar Phillipe Gautier. This move came after weeks of Cambodia urging Thailand to cooperation in resolving the border dispute through peaceful and legal means. On the other hand, Thailand does not recognise the ICJ’s compulsory jurisdiction and continues to insist on resolving the dispute through bilateral negotiations and mechanisms such as the Cambodia-Thailand Joint Boundary Commission (JBC). This refusal of international arbitration shows that Thailand fears international ruling as its claims over the disputed territory lack strong legal grounding. Thailand aims to keep the matter within the bilateral framework where it can leverage its greater economic and military power to pressure Cambodia into compromises. Perhaps, Thailand sees bilateral negotiations as opportunity to dominate and extract territorial concessions from Cambodia. Therefore, relying solely on bilateral mechanisms such as the JBC only prolongs the issue further, leaving it unresolved for future generations.
On 24 July 2025, deadly clashes broke out between the two nations, and although there are third-party efforts, both countries remain locked in a conflict which has resulted in heavy casualties and the displacement of thousands of civilians. While both countries have reaffirmed their desire for peace, it is clear which side is more committed to it, as Thailand continues to reject calls to settle the matter through legal and peaceful means. Thailand, with its more powerful and modern military, appears to believe it has unfinished business and probably seeks to inflict maximum damage on to Cambodia.
Thailand’s relationship with the ICJ is not a smooth one. In the past, when the International Court of Justice has ruled in favour of Cambodia over the Preah Vihear Temple, Thailand dragged its feet in implementing the decision. However, Thailand continues to question the legitimacy of the international court, and such defiance not only disrespects the international law, but it also threatens peace and stability both nations.
Cambodia’s decision to refer the issue to the ICJ is an honest and respectful effort to uphold international principles of law and peace. In 2025, war should not be an option for border disagreements. The International Court exists for a reason, it serves to deliver justice to all nations, regardless of their size and political stance. The International Court should be an international mechanism respected by all nations of the world, as it represents the entire international legal order.
