Claims by a Thai foreign ministry spokesperson — that Cambodia’s use of social media platforms serves inflammatory purposes — are both unfounded and misleading. It is, in fact, certain Thai figures — particularly within the military and political establishment — who have repeatedly used social media and local media outlets to deflect responsibility and stir nationalist sentiment among the public. 

Instead of engaging constructively through diplomatic channels, these individuals have chosen to exploit digital platforms to propagate a one-sided narrative, distort facts and incite public emotion, often at the expense of truth and regional stability. This behaviour has fuelled dangerous rhetoric that risks fostering xenophobia and racial intolerance, undermining the principles of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence that should define the relationship between our two nations.

By contrast, Cambodia’s use of social media by its leaders has been transparent, responsible and aimed at de-escalating tensions. The messages issued by Cambodian leadership have consistently called for calm, urged citizens to avoid inflammatory behaviour, and emphasised the importance of maintaining good neighbourly relations. Cambodian officials have acted in accordance with both diplomatic norms and international expectations by prioritising peace, dialogue, and people-to-people goodwill. To characterise these efforts as inflammatory is not only a misrepresentation, but a deflection from the provocative media tactics employed by certain Thai actors that have, regrettably, escalated the situation rather than resolving it.

Khemrak Rath is a Phnom Penh-based geopolitical analyst. The views and opinions expressed are his own.