Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has called for diplomatic dialogue to reduce border violence with Cambodia. Yet, in contrast, Thailand rejects international mediation. How is this possible, especially from a country that claims to act in self-defense?
The answer lies in Thailand’s strategic intentions rather than a the real commitment to peace, they want chaos.
Below is your 3 insights.
1. Preserving Control of the Narrative:
Thailand is afraid that third-party mediation, particularly under the UN or ASEAN or any big countries, could expose its aggression and force Thailand to comply with international law. By insisting on “bilateral talks,” Thailand can control the narrative, set the terms of negotiation, and avoid inspection over its use of heavy weaponry, including F-16 jets and 155mm ATMG weapons equipped with cluster munitions, banned internationally under the Cluster Munitions Convention.
2. Avoiding International Legal Mechanisms:
Cambodia has already called for a UN Security Council meeting to address the conflict. Accepting mediation could push Thailand into international arbitration or even the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where past rulings, such as the Preah Vihear Temple case, have favored Cambodia. Avoiding these forums helps Thailand sidestep potential legal defeats.
3. Domestic Political Distraction:
Thailand is also grappling with internal political instability. By portraying Cambodia as the aggressor, leaders like Acting Prime Minister Phumtham are rallying nationalist sentiment and diverting public attention from domestic challenges. Yet, Thailand wants to delay any mediation or dialogue because they wish the situation at the border can change from losing to winning, so then they can tell their people that they have won the battle, and perhaps applying their fake map that none of International support.
Author: PanhaCHEZDA