Preah Vihear Conflict and the Use of Military Force

A resurgence of territorial disputes over the UNESCO-listed Temple of Preah Vihear reignited conflict between Cambodia and Thailand after decades of dormancy, with military force becoming a key factor in resolving tensions. The study reveals that the 2008 conflict was driven by geopolitical dynamics, historical grievances, and strategic interests, with both nations escalating military actions despite ASEAN's diplomatic efforts. Analyzing the situation through realism theories, the research highlights how regional organizations struggled to mediate a dispute rooted in power struggles rather than purely territorial claims. The findings underscore the challenges of resolving long-standing conflicts when military force is deployed as a primary tool for negotiation.

Cahyaningrum, A. D., Revalina, L., Khoirunnisaa, P. A., & Fadhilah, S. D. N. (2019). PREAH VIHEAR CONFLICT AND THE USE OF MILITARY FORCE. Sociae Polites, 20(1), 81–92. https://doi.org/10.33541/sp.v20i1.2415