Tens of thousands of people, including hundreds of Catholics, have fled their homes as violent clashes have continued along the Thailand-Cambodia border since July 24.
The renewed hostilities, centered around long-disputed border zones, have left at least 30 people dead and raised fears of a protracted conflict.
Cambodian newspapers reported that thousands of residents have already been evacuated from the country’s northern border regions, which adjoin Thailand.
On the Thai side, nearly 200,000 residents have sought safety, with around 300 evacuation centers established, according to officials.
Bishop Stephen Boonlert Phromsena of Ubon Ratchathani, which borders Cambodia in northeastern Thailand, confirmed that the Church has mobilized its resources to assist affected communities.
“We had to evacuate hundreds of people from seven parishes and close two schools run by the Lovers of the Cross Ubon Ratchathani and the Franciscans,” Bishop Boonlert told LiCAS News.
“Many stayed with their relatives in other parishes and towns, some came to our emergency center, and the rest are at state evacuation centers,” the prelate added.
The diocese has set up an emergency relief operation, providing food, drinking water, clothing, and other necessities.
Most evacuees, the bishop added, have one heartfelt desire — for peace to return so they can resume their livelihoods.
The prelate expressed his “deep sorrow” for the families of those killed and injured in the fighting, calling for prayers for peace.
Catholic bishops call for peace, dialogue
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Thailand (CBCT) issued a statement on Saturday expressing its “deepest concern” over the escalating tensions and violence.
“We appeal for adherence to international law, which must protect and never harm civilians, especially women, children, and the elderly,” said Archbishop Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana, CBCT president.
The bishops highlighted the historical roots of the conflict and warned against political exploitation.
“The Church recognizes that the current border conflicts are deeply rooted in historical complexities, frequently exploited for political gain, and often distorted to incite nationalist sentiment and divert public attention from domestic issues,” the statement read.
The CBCT also warned of the dangers of extreme nationalism, which it said can lead to “division and severe conflict, undermining human dignity and hindering genuine efforts for peaceful resolution.”
“The Church urges sincere dialogue that respects human dignity and seeks common paths toward lasting peace and genuine reconciliation,” Archbishop Vira said.
The CBCT invited all Christians across the country to unite in prayer for peace through Holy Masses and the recitation of the Rosary in all parishes.
Escalating tensions
The clashes stem from long-standing disputes over sections of the 800-kilometer border, partly demarcated during Cambodia’s French colonial era. Several contested areas are near UNESCO-listed temples and ancient archaeological sites claimed by both countries.
In response to intensified fighting, the Thai military imposed martial law on Friday in seven districts of Chanthaburi province and one district in Trat province — both in eastern Thailand and part of the Diocese of Chanthaburi.
The military has accused Cambodian forces of using weapons and crossing into Thai territory.
Parishioners living near the border in these provinces told LiCAS News that they are on high alert and ready to evacuate if instructed by local authorities.
Church as mediator for peace
As tensions persist, the Church in Thailand and Cambodia stands as a moral voice urging restraint and reconciliation.
With its long-standing commitment to promoting dialogue and defending human dignity, the Church is positioning itself as a bridge between communities divided by conflict.
Catholic leaders across Southeast Asia are expected to join in prayer and advocacy efforts, hoping to foster a climate of trust and cooperation that can lead to lasting peace on the border.
