AKP Phnom Penh, October 02, 2025 —

Ambassador Dara In, Permanent Representative of Cambodia to the United Nations in Geneva, has voiced grave concern over the growing acts of xenophobia and violence against Cambodian nationals in Thailand.

“Amid the ongoing armed conflict along our border, we are witnessing an escalation of xenophobic and racist violence targeting our nationals in Thailand, particularly migrant workers and students. Already vulnerable due to their status, they are becoming targets of hateful attacks, harassment, and discriminatory rhetoric. These acts not only harm the victims, but also poison people-to-people relations and undermine the spirit of solidarity that underpins multilateralism,” he stressed at the 60th Session of the Human Rights Council held on Oct. 2 in Geneva.

The ambassador reaffirmed Cambodia’s unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of all human rights, based on the universal principles of equality, dignity, and universality. “But we cannot remain silent in the face of these worrying trends, which are eroding these essential foundations,” he underlined.

He further expressed concern about the proliferation of disinformation campaigns, which distort facts, fuel prejudice, and expose innocent communities to unjustified risks. Such practices, he said, stand in stark contradiction to the international obligations of states to guarantee non-discrimination, equality before the law, and the safety and dignity of all persons within their jurisdiction.

“Combating racism, xenophobia, and intolerance is not a political option, but a legal and moral imperative,” Ambassador Dara In continued, urging the Council to redouble its vigilance and strengthen cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner to ensure that every human being, regardless of origin or status, can live free from fear, hatred, and discrimination. 

By C. Nika