Women and children comprised the majority of over 200,000 people displaced by five days of fighting between Thailand and Cambodia that ended with a negotiated ceasefire, highlighting how armed conflicts disproportionately impact vulnerable populations. The territorial dispute, which claimed 36 lives, created particular hardships for families with young children and pregnant women.
Emergency shelters became overcrowded with families who had fled their homes with minimal possessions, creating challenging conditions for maintaining hygiene, privacy, and basic healthcare services. Women faced additional vulnerabilities including lack of access to reproductive healthcare and increased responsibilities for child care in stressful circumstances.
Children experienced trauma from witnessing violence and displacement that may have long-lasting psychological effects requiring specialized support services. The disruption of normal family routines and separation from extended family networks created additional stress for young people trying to understand the conflict.
International humanitarian organizations prioritized assistance for women and children, but the scale of displacement overwhelmed available resources. Emergency response teams worked to establish safe spaces for vulnerable populations and provide specialized services including maternal healthcare and child protection.
The ceasefire agreement negotiated through Malaysian mediation between Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet includes provisions for protecting civilian populations, particularly women and children. However, continued fighting near Samraong demonstrates ongoing risks. The midnight Monday ceasefire offers hope for improved conditions, while military commanders must consider civilian protection in their consultations. The cross-border committee meeting in Cambodia on August 4 should prioritize vulnerable population protection.