Bangkok: Academics are urging the Thai government to adopt stricter measures after a soldier lost his leg stepping on a landmine, advocating for actions such as notifying partner countries and suspending economic agreements with Cambodia.
According to Thai News Agency, Asst. Prof. Dr. Thanapat Chatinakrob from Thammasat University’s Faculty of Law criticized the government’s current response to the incident, which took place in Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province. He argued that the protest letter sent to Cambodia, citing violations of the Joint Declaration with Thailand and international agreements, is insufficient. Dr. Thanapat emphasized that this was the seventh such incident and that mere protests have proven inadequate. He proposed notifying relevant international parties, including Malaysia and the United States, about Cambodia’s failure to uphold its obligations.
Dr. Thanapat also suggested economic ramifications, such as reviewing and potentially suspending agreements with Cambodia. He pointed out that the conflict might be reigniting, necessitating a reevaluation of bilateral agreements, whether binding or non-binding.
The incident has also affected diplomatic relations, with the release of prisoners of war postponed due to unresolved issues with Cambodia’s use of landmines.
Responding to questions about the National Security Council’s decisions, Dr. Thanapat noted that while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the government have taken somewhat stronger measures, they have historically refrained from suspending agreements with Cambodia. He acknowledged that the postponement of the joint declaration’s implementation, albeit a political agreement, was unprecedented but still deemed insufficient.
International cooperation, particularly concerning trade measures, was highlighted as a potential strategy. Dr. Thanapat mentioned that the United States’ recent lifting of arms sales restrictions to Cambodia could be reconsidered if presented with evidence of Cambodia’s landmine activities. This could lead to renewed arms sales bans or restricted economic relations to prevent perceptions of U.S. support for Cambodia’s actions.
Addressing concerns about escalating violence, Dr. Thanapat stated that while Thailand may signal readiness for stronger actions to protect its sovereignty, it remains committed to international law, suggesting that military interventions are unlikely.