Photo: Thai Press
By: Chanroeun Pa
March 21, 2026, 7:00 PM
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Recent reports of monks taking part in land clearing and building religious structures such as Buddha statues along the Cambodia-Thailand border have raised concerns that go beyond politics.
This has happened especially in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey where disputes remain unresolved. They touch on something deeper: our shared values, our faith, and our responsibility to one another.
Cambodia and Thailand are not just neighbours. We are connected through a long and rich Buddhist tradition that has shaped how we think, live and relate to each other.
This shared heritage is something we should protect carefully. It reminds us that what we do — especially in the name of religion — should bring people closer, not pull them apart.
When Good Intentions and Merit Need Careful Reflection
Buddhism teaches us about compassion, loving-kindness and right action. These are not just ideals we talk about. They are principles we are meant to live by, especially in difficult situations.
This moment invites us to pause and ask an honest question: Can actions meant to create merit truly serve their purpose if they take place in ways that may unintentionally increase tension or misunderstanding?
Even good intentions can have unintended effects. When religious activities happen in disputed or sensitive areas, they can easily be interpreted in ways that go beyond their spiritual meaning. In such situations, taking a step back is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of wisdom.
Why a Pause Matters
A simple and constructive step forward would be a temporary pause on building religious structures in these sensitive border areas by all sides.
This is not about weakening faith. It is not about stopping people from doing good. In fact, it is the opposite. Choosing restraint at the right moment shows maturity, responsibility, and a true commitment to peace. Sometimes, doing less in the short term helps protect something much bigger in the long term.
The Role of Society in Preventing Escalation
Border tensions are often shaped by history and politics. But they are also shaped by how people respond.
The people of Thailand and Cambodia play a crucial role in fostering harmony. Their commitment to compassion, wisdom, and peaceful coexistence is vital. By encouraging calm dialogue, exercising patience, and seeking peaceful solutions, ordinary citizens can help prevent misunderstandings from escalating into more serious issues.
In moments when emotions can escalate rapidly, small actions hold significant importance. Speaking thoughtfully, avoiding harmful narratives, and demonstrating empathy toward others are crucial choices. These actions are essential for fostering peace in our everyday lives.
Protecting What the Buddha Represents
For generations, the image of the Buddha has symbolized peace, wisdom, and reconciliation throughout our region.
However, when these sacred symbols are positioned in areas of conflict, their meaning can become distorted or overshadowed by political circumstances. This is not an attempt to question anyone's faith; rather, it is about preserving the true essence of these symbols.
Religious symbols should unite people, not, even unintentionally, become associated with division.
A Moment for Religious Leadership
This situation presents a significant opportunity for dialogue between the Cambodian and Thai Sangha, rooted in their shared Buddhist teachings. This collaboration can encourage both sides to reflect on the role of religion during challenging times and strengthen their mutual commitment to peace.
In times when political solutions are slow or challenging, moral leadership is crucial. Religious institutions can play a vital role in guiding society towards calm, understanding and reconciliation.
Making Space for Peaceful Solutions
Border disputes should be resolved through legal and diplomatic channels between governments. For these processes to succeed, however, it is essential to maintain a calm and stable broader environment.
Restraint from all parties — particularly at the social and religious levels — alleviates tension and creates space for peaceful solutions to emerge.
Cambodia has consistently highlighted the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to international law as the key to resolving conflicts. This approach necessitates support not only from leadership but also from society as a whole.
A Shared Responsibility
This moment should not divide us. It should remind us of what we share.
For centuries, Cambodia and Thailand have coexisted, intertwined by culture, faith and history. Safeguarding this relationship demands careful attention, especially during sensitive periods.
Peace is not solely established through governmental agreements. It is fostered through everyday actions by exercising restraint, showing empathy and embracing mutual understanding.
Let's respond with wisdom and compassion. This moment can transform from a challenge into an opportunity to reaffirm our collective commitment to peace, dignity, and the true essence of the Dhamma.
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Chanroeun Pa is president of the Cambodian Institute for Democracy
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