Banteay Meanchey, Cambodia — The European Union (EU) has pledged ongoing humanitarian assistance to displaced Cambodian families affected by border restrictions in Banteay Meanchey Province, according to a statement released on 9 February 2026. The assurance came during a visit by Hugo Trismann, EU Ambassador to Cambodia, who led a delegation to provide emergency aid at Kandol Pagoda, where displaced families are seeking shelter.
The visit took place on 8 February 2026 in Thma Puok District, where residents from six villages, including Prey Chan, Chouk Chey, and Phlov Bambaek, have been unable to return home following the installation of barbed wire and container barriers along access roads by Thai military forces late last year. The barriers were reportedly erected after a ceasefire agreement took effect on 27 December 2025, contributing to ongoing displacement of families in the border region.
In discussions with displaced families and local officials, Ambassador Trismann emphasized that the EU will continue to provide support “within its capacity” to help ease the challenges faced by those affected. “They are not alone,” he said, underscoring the EU’s commitment to ongoing humanitarian engagement in the region.
The delegation’s visit was attended by local authorities and partner organizations, including Dith Tina, Cambodia’s Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; Um Reatrey, Governor of Banteay Meanchey Province; and Anirban Chatterjee, Deputy Representative of UNICEF Cambodia. Representatives from other agencies and community groups were also present.
According to local reports, more than 2,700 families in the province remain displaced due to restricted access to their communities following the border control measures. The restrictions have impacted daily life and access to housing, farmland, and local infrastructure for affected residents.
The EU’s commitment to continuing assistance reflects broader international humanitarian engagement in northern Cambodia, where displaced families have faced prolonged disruption since late 2025 due to tensions and security measures along the Cambodia-Thailand border.
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