Border crisis stirs uncertainty for migrants

Cambodian workers in Thailand are speaking out as tensions between the two countries rise and leaders in Phnom Penh urge them to return, write Sooksodsai Sooksomchitra and Pitchayangkul Wongjanakool

- Sooksodsai Sooksomchitra and Pitchayangkul Wongjanakool

Long a backbone of the Thai economy, migrant workers from Cambodia have recently found themselves at the centre of the Thai-Cambodian border conflict.

In an unprecedented move, Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen this month called on Cambodians working in Thailand to return home, promising job opportunities and access to technical and vocational training, the Khmer Times reported on Monday.

The call came as Cambodia's former prime minister issued a 24-hour ultimatum, demanding Thai authorities fully reopen border checkpoints that were unilaterally restricted earlier in the month due to Thai security concerns.

He warned of full border closures and a ban on all Thai goods. After Thailand refused to comply and the ultimatum expired, Cambodia enforced a ban on all imports of Thai fruit and vegetables via land checkpoints, stranding hundreds of trucks.

The tensions coincided with a “Unity March” in Phnom Penh yesterday, where Cambodians gathered in support of their government. During the event, Prime Minister Hun Manet hinted Cambodian workers abroad might soon be asked to return, echoing his father's statement.

“I heard the news. I’m not going back. I work here. I earn my living here,” said Peung Tuen, a 35-year-old Cambodian construction worker who has lived in Sa Kaeo for nearly eight years. He said that he and his family have no plans to leave Thailand.

“My kids study here. My life is here.”