The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training in Cambodia has expressed serious concern over reports of mistreatment faced by Cambodian workers in Thailand, as well as those returning home amid rising border tensions.
In a statement issued on July 27, 2025, the ministry said Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand and those who have recently returned to Cambodia are experiencing discrimination, intimidation, violence and threats to their safety and freedom of movement.
The ministry warned of a growing number of reported abuses, including threats to withhold wages as a means to force Cambodian workers to remain on the job, even after they have formally requested to leave. There are also accounts of restrictions on freedom of expression and other forms of coercion, which have left some Cambodian workers afraid to leave their workplaces or accommodations out of fear of being attacked.
According to the statement, acts of violence by Thai civilians against Cambodian workers have increased following recent military aggression by Thailand along the border. The ministry linked these incidents to Thai military actions that began on July 24, involving armed incursions into Cambodian sovereign territory.
The situation has sparked concern among rights groups and labour advocates, who warn that vulnerable migrant workers are increasingly at risk as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate.
The Cambodian government has not yet announced specific measures to protect its workers abroad but has urged Thai authorities to ensure the safety and rights of all foreign workers within its territory.
