Border crisis in Cambodia: NZers sending help to displaced families
Humanitarian needs remain critical, even as peace negotiations continue.
27 August 2025 – WELLINGTON – Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand has launched an urgent appeal to help tens of thousands of people living in temporary camps along Cambodia’s northern border with Thailand, following recent clashes.
The fighting, which began in late May and escalated in July, has left dozens dead. There are currently 180 makeshift camps along the border, housing up to 150,000 people. Conditions are poor, with overcrowding, limited food, and little privacy. The displaced include children, older people and people with disabilities.
In some places along the border, Caritas partner agencies have begun supporting those most at risk, with efforts focussed on helping displaced woman-headed households, unaccompanied children and people with disabilities. Caritas is concentrating on providing the life-saving basics, such as building temporary shelter, ensuring hygiene is adequate and providing food for infants.
Aotearoa asked to help
“Although the world’s attention seems to have moved on from this conflict, the suffering in these camps remains real,” says Mena Antonio, Chief Executive of Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand. “People have fled with nothing. They are living in temporary shelters, unsure when or if they can go home. We are asking New Zealanders to help them at this critical moment.”
Fear despite ceasefire
While Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to a ceasefire and are engaged in further talks, thousands of displaced families remain too afraid to return to their villages. There is deep uncertainty about whether the ceasefire will hold and when it will be safe to go back.
“This is a rapidly evolving crisis,” says Antonio. “Even with the ceasefire in place, our partners in Cambodia tell us that the displaced are traumatised by what has happened and uncertain about what lies ahead.”
To donate or find out more, visit: Cambodia conflict appeal Caritas Aotearoa — Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand
