Cambodia & Thailand: Opinion, ‘A military escalation in South-East Asia, a danger for regional peace’

"There are only two forces in the world, force and the sword. In the long run, the sword will always be conquered by the spirit". - Napoleon Bonaparte

Mr Vireth Vathdey Khaou Executive Director - Khaou Chuly Group

Escalation as a military and political strategy

Escalation, as a strategy of fait accompli and a model of military conflict management, presents a major danger in relations between Thailand and Cambodia. The main risk lies in the ill-considered and irreversible actions of certain Thai civilian and military actors who are trying to impose this policy of fait accompli as an unavoidable policy. These actors, who are often critical and polemical, are unaware of the consequences of their rhetoric, their cognitive biases and their decisions, which are fuelling growing tensions between the two neighbours.

History and mechanisms of escalation

Escalation, as a modus operandi, has marked world military and diplomatic history for centuries. The looting, despoliation and expropriation by force to appropriate newly conquered territories and populations generate a crucial and cumulative impact. When Thailand launched its project of military conquest, it favoured bellicosity and the aggravation of the conflict to the detriment of a peaceful resolution.

Thai warmongering and ultra-nationalism

This warmongering is based on the conviction that the defeat of Cambodia is vital for certain ultra-nationalist politicians and royalist elites in Thailand. The country seems to believe that a radical subjugation of Cambodia will enable it to concentrate its national resources and strengthen its fragile regional influence.

Propaganda and the metaphysics of war

The proclamation that the collapse of Cambodia is essential for Thailand is an entrenched reality, expressed in its speeches, official statements, and actions. Today, Thai propaganda mixes one-sided and equivocal historical truths with a metaphysics of war. Thailand thus appears as the heir to a form of ‘hubris’, aspiring to glory while concealing signs of decomposition.

Cambodia: a symbol of resistance and civilisation

Cambodia, the epigone of Nemesis, embodies a model of kalokagathos, the ideal of a civilisation rooted in values greater than mere conquest. This war cannot devour the future indefinitely without tearing up the very soil it claims to sanctify. It can only lead to a tragic lack of understanding between generations of neighbouring peoples.

Conclusion: Lucidity and responsibility

It is now imperative for Thailand to demonstrate lucidity and responsibility. The most important thing is to protect what must be protected: human life, fundamental human values and peaceful coexistence. Peace may never be eternal, but it must be managed with wisdom and discernment.

Mr Vireth Vathdey Khaou Executive Director - Khaou Chuly Group