Fact Check: Cambodia has asked the ICJ to resolve a century-old border dispute with Thailand.

Fact Check: Cambodia has asked the ICJ to resolve a century-old border dispute with Thailand

What We Know

Cambodia has indeed sought the intervention of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to resolve ongoing disputes regarding its border with Thailand, particularly concerning the area surrounding the Preah Vihear Temple. This request is part of a long-standing territorial conflict that dates back over a century, rooted in historical claims and colonial treaties. The ICJ previously ruled in favor of Cambodia in 1962 regarding the ownership of the Preah Vihear Temple, but disputes over the surrounding areas have persisted (source-1, source-2).

In June 2025, Cambodia formally requested the ICJ to adjudicate on the demarcation of its border with Thailand, which has been a source of tension and conflict, especially since the 2008 UNESCO application for the temple site (source-3, source-4).

Analysis

The claim that Cambodia has asked the ICJ to resolve a century-old border dispute is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The historical context of the dispute is crucial; it stems from colonial-era treaties and subsequent conflicts that have left unresolved territorial questions. The ICJ's previous rulings in 1962 and 2013 have established a legal precedent favoring Cambodia, but the ongoing disputes indicate that the situation is far from settled (source-5, source-6).

The reliability of the sources used in this fact-check is high. Articles from reputable news agencies like Reuters and AP provide timely updates on the diplomatic actions taken by Cambodia, while historical analyses from academic sources offer context and depth to the territorial disputes. However, it is important to note that the situation is politically sensitive, and narratives can be influenced by nationalistic sentiments in both countries (source-7, source-8).

Conclusion

The verdict on the claim that "Cambodia has asked the ICJ to resolve a century-old border dispute with Thailand" is True. The evidence clearly indicates that Cambodia has formally sought the ICJ's intervention to address ongoing border disputes, which are rooted in a complex historical context. The request aligns with Cambodia's previous legal actions regarding the Preah Vihear Temple and surrounding territories, underscoring the enduring nature of this conflict.

Fact Check: Cambodia has asked the ICJ to resolve a century-old border dispute with Thailand.