Cambodia Unveils Three-Pillar Recovery Plan After Border Conflict With Thailand

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet unveiled, in a solemn address delivered on January 10, 2026, a three-pillar recovery plan aimed at mitigating the humanitarian and infrastructural fallout from the recent conflict along the border with Thailand.

Hun Manet

The conflict, which first erupted in July 2025 and resumed in December, displaced hundreds of thousands of people and caused extensive destruction, despite a fragile ceasefire agreed on December 27. Armed clashes—marked by Thai airstrikes and artillery fire—left dozens dead and displaced more than 400,000 people on the Cambodian side by early 2026, while essential services were disrupted and mine-contaminated fields littered disputed areas.

Despite international mediation efforts, including intervention by U.S. President Donald Trump and the announcement on January 9 of USD 45 million in U.S. assistance for demining and stabilization, tensions persist amid mutual accusations of ceasefire violations.

Measure 1: Safe return of displaced persons

For residents deemed able to return home, the Royal Government will coordinate—through the Ministries of National Defense and Interior, alongside local authorities—an accelerated demining effort led by the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC).

A special committee—a dedicated task force—will assess agricultural damage and household debt, while restoring access to clean water, electricity and telecommunications. The National Bank of Cambodia has decided to waive fees and penalties and to cancel up to USD 2,500 in debt for disabled soldiers, alongside financial assistance of USD 200,000 for fallen martyrs.

Measure 2: Support for families

Families facing difficulties in returning will benefit from upgraded temporary shelters or relocation programs, managed by the Ministries of Economy, Land Management, and the National Committee for Disaster Management. The Ministry of Interior will collect comprehensive data to enable targeted assistance, with immediate consultations aimed at delivering rapid solutions and preserving livelihoods during the transitional phase.

Measure 3: Infrastructure reconstruction

This pillar prioritizes the rebuilding of schools, health centers, markets, roads, bridges, and water, electricity and telecommunications networks. It includes USD 15 million in U.S. aid for displaced populations and USD 10 million for demining operations, strengthening post-conflict resilience.té, marchés, routes, ponts et réseaux d'eau, d'électricité et télécoms.