Cambodian Bishops Urge Support for Displaced Families Amid Border Tensions with Thailand

Amid rising tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border, three Catholic bishops of Cambodia have appealed to priests, religious, and lay faithful to support relief efforts for displaced families and refugees.

“Over the past few days, we have witnessed many of our brothers and sisters fleeing their villages along the Cambodia–Thai border, desperately seeking safety in makeshift camps,” the bishops said in a joint statement.

The signatories include Bishop Olivier Michel Marie Schmitthaeusler, M.E.P., Vicar Apostolic of Phnom Penh; Bishop Pierre Suon Hangly, Coadjutor Vicar Apostolic of Phnom Penh; and Bishop Enrique Figaredo Alvargonzález, SJ, Prefect of Battambang.

The bishops called on all members of the Church to donate generously to help the families affected by the escalating situation. “We will coordinate our efforts with Caritas Cambodia. Brothers and sisters are invited to contribute in any way they can,” they urged.

In addition to material support, the bishops asked the faithful to pray for peace in Cambodia, especially along the tense border area. They expressed their gratitude to all who have shown compassion and solidarity during this time of need.

On July 27, the Catholic community in Kampong Rot gathered in prayer for national peace and for the safety of civilians and displaced families. They offered special intentions for the thousands of victims and refugees in urgent need of emergency assistance.