Tensions between Cambodia and Thailand have escalated sharply following a deadly border incident, where a Cambodian soldier was reportedly killed in a sneak attack from Thai soldiers on Cambodian territory. But the conflict hasn’t stayed on the frontier, it has spilled into the digital and media realms, where both sides are clashing through narratives and accusations.
At the center of this new battlefield is Thailand’s use of media to paint Cambodia in a negative light. False narratives, political threats, and dramatic words have replaced diplomacy.
2 insights to consider:
1. Media as a Weapon: False Narratives and Populist Threats:
Thailand appears to be using its media platforms not merely to inform the public, but to escalate tensions. From analysis shows to political commentary, Cambodia has been portrayed as weak or dependent. It is an inaccurate image that misrepresents the reality of Cambodia in 2025.
One clear example was when the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ spokesperson threatened to cut electricity and internet services to Cambodia. In response, Cambodia took action first, by cutting internet and electricity links from Thailand. This was a bold, intentional move, despite its consequences. Later, the Thai Prime Minister apologized, saying the statement of her spokesmen had been misunderstood.
This week, a Thai social media figure claimed Cambodia would surrender if Thailand stopped exporting oil for a few months. The claim was bold but emotionally driven but not a strategic analysis. It reflects a populist desire to appear patriotic by framing Cambodia as the "weaker neighbor. Cambodian leader responded firmly, with an advice to suspend imports of all canned goods from Thailand, including alcoholic beverages, energy drinks, canned fish, and meat, in favor of domestic or non-Thai alternatives.
2. Framing, Misinformation, and Dangerous Accusations:
Beyond direct threats, Thailand has also engaged in strategic framing of Cambodia. The Thai Ministry of Digital Economy and Society recently accused Cambodia as the cybercrime center. These claims, unverified, paint a dangerous picture meant to tarnish Cambodia’s international image.
However, on June 20, 2025, Channel News Asia (CNA), broadcasting from Singapore, uploading a view on its YouTube Channel documentary highlighting Thailand’s role as a source country for human trafficking. The documentary pointed out that criminal groups seem to have connections with those in power in Bangkok and how Thai authorities only acted seriously after pressure from China.
To make matters worse, Bangkok Post, published fake news alleging that Cambodians flooded the border to buy fuel, accompanied by a misleading photo from 2021. Such misinformation is not only unethical but break down public trust in Thai media, casting Thailand as manipulative and irresponsible.
A Dangerous Game with Long-Term Costs:
The ongoing media war and rising political hostility risk damaging not just bilateral ties but also regional stability. What’s unfolding is more than a border dispute, it’s a test of ASEAN norms and responsible state behavior.
Author: DeNotoriousONE