Transform Healthcare Cambodia UPDATE ON ESCALATION OF CONFLICT IN CAMBODIA
July 2025
Transform Healthcare Cambodia. UK Registered Charity No 1154437.
���� Important Travel Update for Volunteers Visiting Cambodia (November 6th-10th 2025)
✈ Why are we sharing this?
You have volunteered to undertake teaching support with Transform Healthcare Cambodia in November 2025. This will take place in Battambang Province.
We want to keep you fully informed about any potential risks when travelling. There is currently an escalation in conflict between Cambodia and Thailand near their shared border. Below is what you need to know.
�� What is happening?
• Cambodia and Thailand share a long border. For many years, they have argued about who owns certain areas, especially old temples. This has escalated to military conflict at the borders on several occasions, over many years.
• Recently (May–July 2025), there have been some localised military clashes between their armies in the contested border area. These include:
o Shooting and shelling
o Airstrikes by Thai fighter jets near disputed temples
o Landmines near disputed temples, injuring soldiers
• As a result:
o All border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia are closed. o Diplomatic relations have been downgraded and ambassadors recalled
o Trade and transport at the border are suspended
Transform Healthcare Cambodia. UK Registered Charity No 1154437.
�� Is Battambang affected?
• No. Battambang is located 300 km from the conflict zone and remains peaceful.
• No fighting has occurred in Battambang.
• Daily life continues as normal in Battambang, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap.
⚠ What are the risks for us?
While Battambang is currently safe:
✅ Travel plans may be adjusted if needed.
✅ There could be delays with travel routes, if roads are closed or rerouted. ✅ Spread of conflict is unlikely but not impossible. We are monitoring the position closely.
�� How are we keeping you safe?
We are taking the following steps to protect you:
1. Daily monitoring of updates from the UK Foreign Office, Cambodian Government, and trusted news sources
2. We will be avoiding all border areas and conflict zones
3. We always ensure everyone has travel insurance; please check if yours covers civil unrest.
4. We will be maintaining contact with local hospitals and partner organisations about safety.
5. We will be providing real-time updates to all volunteers via email and WhatsApp
Transform Healthcare Cambodia. UK Registered Charity No 1154437.
�� What should you do?
✅ Stay calm. We have managed similar situations before, and our July 2025 team experienced no disruption.
✅ Ask us if you have any worries. Remember, there are no silly questions. ✅ Follow all safety guidance provided before and during your trip and keep your emergency details up to date.
We will only proceed with the November trip if it remains safe to do so. Your wellbeing is our top priority.
�� In simple words…
Battambang is safe. The fighting is far away. We’re watching the situation every day and have plans in place to keep you protected. You are not alone. We are with you every step of the way.
�� Where does this information come from?
We use:
• Updates from the UK Foreign Office and other governments • Reports from news agencies like BBC, Reuters, The Washington Post, The Times and Sky News
• Local updates from our Cambodian partners and healthcare contacts from our contacts in Cambodia
Transform Healthcare Cambodia. UK Registered Charity No 1154437.
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