The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has welcomed the recent ceasefire announced by Thailand and Cambodia and reiterated its readiness to conduct further visits to the 18 Cambodian soldiers captured by Thai forces.
The ICRC in Thailand visited them on August 5, but hasn’t released any reports, in adherence with the principles of the organisation.
“The ceasefire offers some respite to those affected by the hostilities, which saw families flee their homes, lose loved ones and access to necessities. Our priority lies in addressing the needs of the people affected and this is central to our dialogue with the authorities,” it said, in an August 8 press release.
It explained that the ICRC is mandated by the international community, under the Geneva Conventions, including the right to visit prisoners of war and any civilian internees who are protected by the conventions.
On their visit to the 18 Cambodian “Prisoners of War” detained in Thailand, the ICRC noted that as a neutral, impartial and independent organisation, their work in places of detention is based on a long-standing principle of confidentiality and bilateral dialogue with the detaining authorities.
“This approach builds trust and allows for frank, open conversations with both the people we visit and the authorities in charge. It is essential for gaining and maintaining access to people in need.
“The ICRC does not publicly confirm its findings or observations from these visits. This principle is a cornerstone of our work, crucial for the security of the people we assist and our staff, and ensuring the continued access we need to carry out our mandate,” it said.
They explained that they are working alongside both the Cambodian and Thai Red Cross Societies, as well as other Red Cross Red Crescent partners, and are ready to support both nations to carry out similar future detainee visits and act as neutral intermediaries in any planned releases.
“We stand ready to scale up our support as needed and urge continued respect for IHL, which includes access to persons detained in relation to the conflict,” it said.
