The protection of Preah Vihear temple in the armed conflicts situation between Cambodia and Thailand based on international law

International humanitarian law mandates the protection of cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, during armed conflicts. A 2011 border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand led to significant destruction at Preah Vihear temple, a site inscribed by UNESCO in 2008. This study clarifies that such heritage objects are explicitly protected under international law, prohibiting their targeting and requiring parties to safeguard both domestic and enemy heritage sites during conflicts. The analysis employs statute and case approaches, using the Preah Vihear incident as a focal point to examine legal obligations and their enforcement in armed conflict scenarios.

Ikaningtyas, Suryokumoro, H., Ula, H., & Manullang, L. (2019). The protection of Preah Vihear temple in the armed conflicts situation between Cambodia and Thailand based on international law. Culture and International Law, 292–302. https://doi.org/10.1201/9780429426032-28