1.\tThis is the moment for Thai and Cambodian leaders to rise above politics, and bring together two nations with shared history, culture and religious traditions, putting people first.<\/p>\n
2.\tThe most immediate need is a permanent ceasefire as called for by the United Nations in February, as called for by both Thai and Cambodian civil society groups, and as hoped for by Thai and Khmer communities along the border (including soldiers, monks and small scale business people). Ceasefire practically means no troop movements, no troop build up, no weapons use, no provocations, no accusations. The welfare of the Thai and Khmer people along the borders is paramount, and the peace and prosperity for border communities should be the primary concern of decision makers in Bangkok and Phnom Penh.<\/p>\n
3.\tNegotiations between Thailand and Cambodia need to continue within the context of the ASEAN family. There needs to be empathy and understanding about the fact that \u2018third party mediation\u2019 is politically sensitive in Thailand, and that practically speaking Indonesian peacekeepers is a non-starter.<\/p>\n
4.\tRecognizing that Cambodia will not relinquish \u2018ownership\u2019 of the Preah Vihear temple, gestures to share management of the temple with Thailand, UNESCO and others should be considered as a serious and viable resolution to the temple dispute. There is also already a precedent for this in the Angkor Wat committee, which oversees the management of the temples, where Thailand is represented. For this to happen the Thai Parliament needs to ratify the minutes of the existing joint working group and plans for economic development of the 4.7 kilometer area should be fast tracked.<\/p>\n
5.\tCluster munitions were used in the border clashes in February. Thailand and Cambodia must push for progress by immediately signing, ratifying and implementing the Convention of Cluster Munitions. They should end the quibbling over definitions and join the international community in embracing this protocol for the good of people[1].<\/p>\n
6.\tMedia in both Thailand and Cambodia need to consider the impact of irresponsible reporting. Rumour mongering and projecting nationalistic sentiment should be minimized, and stories which have the potential to escalate the conflict should be verified. Communications between media personnel in both countries is encouraged.<\/p>\n
7.\tThe Thai Cambodia conflict has the potential to escalate. 70% of Cambodia\u2019s population is under 30 years of age. They have not experienced war, they are largely unemployed with limited education. They are fiercely nationalistic and easily mobilized for war. Provocation of this explosive situation is highly dangerous and should be taken into consideration each time fighting breaks out on the border.<\/p>\n
Note:<\/p>\n
[1] They should consider doing this in time for the 11th<\/sup> Meeting of State Parties to the Mine Ban Treaty to be held in Phnom Penh in November 2011.<\/p>\n _________________________<\/p>\n