GBC Meeting: Hope for Peace, but Challenges Persist in Cambodia-Thailand Border Conflict
A key meeting between Cambodia and Thailand on December 24 could help end the border conflict that has caused widespread violence. But experts say there are still major hurdles to a lasting ceasefire.
The General Border Committee (GBC) meeting will focus on how both sides can stop fighting and verify the ceasefire. Tensions remain high after over two weeks of clashes, and past talks failed to secure peace.
Cautious Optimism for the GBC Talks
Southeast Asia analyst Seng Vanly believes the GBC could make progress, but warns that any deal might be vague and not lead to an immediate ceasefire. The meeting will focus on military issues like where to pull back troops and how to communicate during a ceasefire.
Him Rotha from the Cambodian Centre for Regional Studies adds that while technical talks could help, the Thai military still has a lot of control over decisions, which may prevent a quick end to the conflict.
International Pressure for a Solution
The conflict has displaced more than 540,000 people and caused many casualties. Countries like the US and Japan, as well as the UN and EU, are pushing for peace. But despite international pressure, fighting has spread to more areas in Cambodia, and the conflict continues.
Vanly points out that both sides are blaming each other for violating ceasefire terms. He says Cambodia and Thailand need a clear, agreed-upon plan for a ceasefire and a system to monitor any violations.
Thailand’s Election Could Affect Peace Talks
Thailand is holding elections in February 2026, which could complicate peace efforts. Rotha warns that elections often make leaders hesitant to make compromises, and past elections have only extended the fighting.
Experts agree that peace won’t come overnight. The process may be slow, with localized ceasefire agreements leading to a broader solution in the future.
Looking Ahead
Even if the GBC meeting leads to a ceasefire, the path to lasting peace will need continued diplomacy and trust-building between Cambodia and Thailand.
