As media organizations and CSOs committed to press freedom, the protection of journalists, and professional reporting standards, we jointly issue this statement to draw attention to recent media coverage related to the deadly Cambodia–Thailand border dispute and the safety of journalists reporting from the conflict zone. We strongly emphasize that journalists are never targets, including in armed conflict. Their safety and independence must be respected and protected at all times, with this duty heightened in conflict or sensitive reporting environments. We urge the authorities from both Cambodia and Thailand to provide up-to-date, accurate information for media coverage, in order to ensure timely and transparent access to reliable information and to guarantee the safety and freedom of movement for all journalists covering this issue. We urge international, regional, and local media agencies to uphold the principles of comprehensive, balanced, and unbiased reporting, as well as providing appropriate protective safety gear to their personnel, support staff, and freelance journalists deployed on the ground. We have observed that coverage of the five-day border dispute has too often reflected one-sided narratives, which contribute to public confusion and misinformation. Even after a ceasefire was reached between the two countries, framing and reporting that favors either one side or the other has persisted and risks fueling misunderstanding and hatred. We further call on all journalists—whether local or international, Cambodian or Thai, professional or citizen —to strictly adhere to globally recognized journalistic codes of ethics, especially when reporting on sensitive cross-border issues. Ethical journalism requires accuracy, fairness, and a conscious effort to avoid stereotyping or contributing to conflict escalation. In times of tension and uncertainty, responsible journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public understanding and promoting peace. It is therefore vital that all stakeholders—governments, media agencies, and journalists—uphold their respective responsibilities in protecting journalists and ensuring fair, factual, and ethical coverage. The statement is jointly endorsed by:
- Cambodian Journalists Alliance Association (CamboJA)
- Cambodian Center for Human Rights (CCHR)
- Communication and Media Promotion Organization (CMPO)
- Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ)
- National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP)
- Alliance Independent Journalists (AJI)
- Gerakan Media Merdek (Geramm)
- Cambodian Center for Independent Media (CCIM)
- Oversea Press Club of Cambodia (OPCC)
- Center for Alliance of Labor and Human Rights (CENTRAL)
- Cambodian League for the Promotion and Defence of Human Rights (LICADHO)
- Prachatai
- International Federation of Journalists (IFJ)
- Reporters Without Borders (RSF)
- Cambodian Human Rights and Development Association (ADHOC)
- Cambodian Institute for Democracy (CID)
Download here: Joint Statement (EN) Joint Statement (KH)