ASIA/THAILAND - Ceasefire violated: the Diocese of Ubon Ratchathani welcomes displaced people in emergency shelters

Bangkok (Agenzia Fides) – Clashes on the border between Thailand and Cambodia continue, despite the ceasefire signed less than 24 hours ago. The Thai military has accused Cambodia of violating the agreement, claiming that fighting has continued even after the pact came into effect. "Following the declaration of the ceasefire," explained deputy military spokesman Ritcha Suksuwanon in a statement, "unrest was reported in the Phu Makua area, provoked by the Cambodian side, which led to an exchange of fire between the two armies that lasted until this morning. Clashes were also reported in the Sam Taet area."

Tensions between the two countries remain high. For this reason, the Diocese of Ubon Ratchathani, located in northeastern Thailand, on the border with Cambodia, has activated its emergency shelters to accommodate people fleeing the conflict. It is estimated that around 200,000 displaced people have found shelter in centers located in the provinces of Si Sa Ket, Surin, and Buri Ram. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Caritas, other local church organizations such as the Congregation of the Lovers of the Cross, and several diocesan offices, refugees are receiving food, drinking water, clothing, hygiene products, and basic necessities.

Bishop Stephen Boonlert Phromsena has also opened several "donation centers" in different parts of the diocese, in order to channel aid from other regions and thus ensure care for the displaced. In recent hours, the bishop has personally visited these centers to bring comfort, pray with the families, and express solidarity with the victims.
In a recent statement, the diocese called "on all the faithful to pray for peace and the protection of those in the affected areas" and invited "parishes to organize moments of prayer for reconciliation and the cessation of hostilities." (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 29/7/2025)

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