An Australian member of parliament has called for a “principled and engaged” international response to the ongoing border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand, which forced hundreds of thousands of people out of their homes.
Mark Dreyfus MP, Member for Isaacs, Victoria, addressed the Australian parliament earlier today. He explained that since his 2007 election, he has built strong relationships with members of the Cambodian Australian community.
He noted that many members of the community in his electorate have contacted him with great concerns about the recent outbreak of violence in the Cambodia-Thailand border area.
Dreyfus highlighted their fears for their loved ones and their anxiety about the consequences of instability. They wanted their concerns being heard, he continued.
“Foreign minister Penny Wong reaffirmed Australia’s support for a peaceful resolution through regional dialogue and international cooperation. That position reflects our continued commitment to peace, the rule of law and the protection of civilians in our region,” he said, highlighting how civilians bear the immediate cost of conflict.
“For communities in Australia with close connections to the region, these events cause real worry and demand a principled and engaged international response,” he added.
While the fighting has paused during the current ceasefire, Dreyfus noted that peace is not just the absence of war, but the presence of justice, of dignity and the belief that every person deserves to live free from fear.
“The nations of the world differ in their histories, but the challenges to peace and stability remind us of the international community’s shared responsibility to prevent conflict and protect civilians,” he said.
“Upholding justice, mutual respect and dialogue to resolve conflict is what gives meaning to our shared humanity,” he added.
