បទ​វិភាគ៖ សង្គ្រាម​កម្ពុជា-ថៃ និង​សង្គ្រាម​ចិត្តសាស្ត្រ

 Analysis: The Cambodia-Thailand War and Psychological Warfare

The Cambodia-Thailand War, rooted in a long-standing border dispute, has been significantly shaped by psychological warfare—tactics designed to influence the emotions, motives, and behavior of the enemy and the public. This analysis explores how both nations have employed propaganda, misinformation, and social media manipulation to demoralize opponents, sway public opinion, and gain strategic advantages, while also assessing the broader impact on the conflict.

Historical Context

The conflict originates from colonial-era border ambiguities, particularly around the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site claimed by both countries. Historical tensions, dating back to French colonial mapping, have been exacerbated by nationalist rhetoric from leaders seeking to rally domestic support. In Cambodia, former Prime Minister Hun Sen has leveraged the dispute to strengthen his son’s nascent leadership, while in Thailand, political instability—marked by the suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra—has fueled military assertiveness and nationalist fervor.

Psychological Warfare Tactics

1. Leaked Phone Call

A striking example of psychological warfare was the leaked recording of a phone call between Hun Sen and Paetongtarn Shinawatra. In the conversation, Paetongtarn called Hun Sen "uncle" and criticized a Thai military commander, suggesting a personal allegiance that undermined her national loyalty. Likely orchestrated by Hun Sen, this leak aimed to weaken Paetongtarn’s credibility, stoke outrage in Thailand, and deepen bilateral mistrust. The tactic succeeded in destabilizing Thai leadership and escalating tensions.

2. Social Media Manipulation

Social media has emerged as a key arena for psychological warfare, with nationalists on both sides engaging in a "war of words." Thai users have accused Cambodia of "cultural theft" over shared heritage, while Cambodians have branded Thais as "Siamese thieves." This digital propaganda amplifies nationalist sentiments, spreads misinformation, and entrenches each side’s narrative. By influencing public morale and perception, these exchanges make de-escalation politically costly for leaders, as compromise could be seen as weakness.

3. Disinformation and Accusations

Both nations have deployed disinformation to discredit the other and gain international sympathy. Cambodia has accused Thailand of using banned cluster munitions and chemical weapons, while Thailand has alleged that Cambodia targeted civilians and cultural sites. These claims, whether factual or exaggerated, aim to portray the opponent as violating international norms, thereby securing moral superiority and potential foreign support. Such tactics complicate the conflict by muddying the truth and hindering diplomatic progress.

Impact on the Conflict

Psychological warfare has intensified the Cambodia-Thailand War by deepening mistrust and obstructing resolution efforts. The leaked phone call not only damaged Paetongtarn’s political standing but also strained bilateral relations, framing Cambodia as manipulative. Social media propaganda has fueled public hostility, locking leaders into hardline stances to avoid domestic backlash. Meanwhile, disinformation has undermined ceasefire attempts, with Thailand rejecting third-party mediation in favor of bilateral talks—a move Cambodia views as a delay tactic. Collectively, these strategies have escalated the conflict, increasing its human and diplomatic costs.

Critical Perspective

Beyond territorial disputes, psychological warfare in this conflict serves the domestic agendas of elites. In Cambodia, Hun Sen’s tactics may distract from internal challenges and bolster his son’s rule. In Thailand, the military’s escalation efforts could reinforce its influence amid political turmoil. This suggests that psychological warfare is not just a tool of interstate rivalry but also a means of consolidating power, raising questions about the true drivers of the conflict.

Conclusion

The Cambodia-Thailand War demonstrates how psychological warfare can transform a border dispute into a protracted struggle. Through leaked communications, social media campaigns, and disinformation, both sides have sought to manipulate perceptions and weaken their adversary. While effective in rallying support and gaining short-term advantages, these tactics have entrenched hostilities, making peace elusive. Understanding their role highlights the need to address not only the territorial issues but also the underlying political motivations fueling this enduring conflict.