The inability to define the Thailand-Cambodia border line persists due to nationalist manipulation combined with weak regional conflict resolution systems, which endangers ASEAN’s core peace and cooperation values. The organisation needs to adopt a more active dispute resolution method for this situation. 

Thailand and Cambodia share historical ties which have repeatedly been affected by their prolonged border conflict. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) made a ruling regarding Preah Vihear Temple sovereignty in 1962, yet this decision did not resolve the neighbouring undemarcated territories, which led to new tensions. Recent events show how dangerous the situation remains in this essential Southeast Asian sub-region because of military clashes and diplomatic deteriorations, and economic sanctions. The current crisis results from multiple complex issues which continue to persist.

The conflict centres on the 817-kilometre border that Thailand and Cambodia share, which includes an important 817-kilometre portion that remains without clear boundaries. Both countries claim sovereignty over particular regions surrounding important historical Khmer temples such as Prasat Ta Muen Thom and Ta Krabey, which matter to their respective nations. The lack of defined territorial borders continues territorial conflicts, which justifies both military and small-scale border clashes. The ICJ ruled in 1962 that Cambodia holds sovereignty over Preah Vihear Temple while leaving the adjacent areas for future bilateral talks, which have not been successful. The border dispute maintains a strong connection with political events inside both countries, together with their nationalistic stories. During political turmoil and election periods, politicians use historical complaints and territorial sovereignty claims to build public backing. The politicisation of these issues creates obstacles for diplomatic agreements since any negotiated settlement could be viewed as a national betrayal , which would create public opposition against diplomatic progress. The Thai prime minister faces suspension because of her inability to handle the border dispute , which demonstrates the effects of national politics on this matter.

The substantial lack of trust between nations creates substantial obstacles for their bilateral relationship. The bilateral relationship deteriorated because of mutual distrust,........

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