Thailand-Cambodia border tensions reshape public discourse

PoliticsArrests and online intimidation highlight conflict's impact beyond the battlefieldA gate marks the Thai-Cambodia border in Thailand's Chanthaburi province on July 22. Observers say heightened tensions along the frontier have affected public debate in both nations. (Photo by Ken Kobayashi)DANIELLE KEETON-OLSEN and PHOUNG VANTHAAugust 17, 2026 10:54 JSTPHNOM PENH -- Om Sarath and her journalist husband Pheap Pheara had planned to start a business roasting and selling duck, taking out a $10,000 loan to buy equipment while he attended classes to learn how to prepare the dish. But that was put on hold after he was detained over material he posted online amid the Thailand-Cambodia border conflict last year.