Thailand’s Higher Education Ministry Mobilizes Universities for Humanitarian Support Amid Border Clashes
In response to the escalating conflict along the Thai-Cambodian border, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) has coordinated with universities nationwide to assist affected civilians. Relief efforts include the establishment of temporary shelters and centralized field kitchens to support displaced populations.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has reiterated that under international humanitarian law (IHL), certain acts may constitute war crimes, even without direct physical harm. These include deliberate targeting of civilians or protected sites, such as hospitals, as well as violations of fundamental humanitarian principles—such as the exploitation of the deceased, forced conscription, and recruitment of children under 15.
Of particular concern is the July 24 Cambodian strike on Phanom Dong Rak Hospital in Surin Province, which resulted in extensive damage. Hospitals are granted special protection under IHL and may not be attacked unless used for hostile purposes. Even in such cases, prior warning must be issued and proof provided that the target holds legitimate military value. The situation draws parallels to international debates surrounding military operations in Gaza, where civilian infrastructure has reportedly been repurposed for combat activities.
According to WHO’s global health facility attack tracking system, there have been over 700 documented attacks on healthcare facilities in 2025 alone, across 15 countries and territories, including Ukraine, Syria, Gaza, and Sudan. These attacks have resulted in over 1,100 deaths—exceeding the total for all of 2024—with many more injured.
In response, Cambodia’s Ministry of Defense has accused Thai forces of violating international law through the alleged use of heavy artillery and cluster munitions, labeling the actions as inhumane and aggressive. The statement cited violations of key international conventions, including the Convention on Cluster Munitions, and criticized Thailand’s disregard for basic humanitarian norms.
Independent defense analysis by Australia’s Lowy Institute indicates that Thailand maintains a significant advantage over Cambodia in all areas of military capability, including budget, manpower, readiness, and frequency of exercises. However, analysts caution that superior military strength does not justify armed escalation, especially given the inevitable civilian toll.
The Thai government maintains that armed conflict benefits no one. While international law must hold violators accountable, the current crisis highlights the growing challenges to the authority of humanitarian norms on the global stage.
News Source : https://www.thaipbs.or.th/news/content/354668
