In July, an internationally-brokered ceasefire brought to an end five days of severe clashes between Thailand and Cambodia. In the attacks that have marked this conflict, at least 43 people have been killed and more than 300,000 have fled their homes. As tensions simmer, both nations have transitioned their conflict from the battlefield to the digital realm, engaging in a narrative battle across social media platforms. This move is emblematic of a larger trend, where international perceptions and local sentiments are ever-more being decided on the digital battlefield.
The diplomatic fallout from these border skirmishes has resulted in important recent developments in both countries. In a commendable move, Thailand has decided to appoint actress and former Miss Thailand Panadda Wongphudee as its official defense spokesperson. This ruling is intended to deter Cambodia’s dynamic communications efforts, a tactic that has taken off on social media platforms.
The Evolving Narrative
The ongoing policy dispute has spilled over into direct and violent clash. Both sides are now locked in a brutal PR tug-of-war, both sides attempting to shape the story about their respective actions. Thailand’s messaging was mostly framed around the theme of “lost territories,” tapping into Thai nationalism and the memory of historical wrongs. On the flip side of the ledger, Cambodia has successfully played on existential fears, presenting itself as susceptible to siege from its much larger neighbor.
Piyarat Panlee, a political scientist from Kasetsart University, emphasized the intense “meme-driven” character of the contest. He forcefully made the case that the current online discourse often rewards the sensational approach rather than the substantive one. This tactic threatens to eclipse more substantive conversations about the impact of the conflict on the whole.
“In moments of cross-border tension, the most effective spokesperson is one who calms the waters rather than stirs them,” – Dr Panlee
Wongphudee’s recent appointment illustrates Thailand’s effort to reclaim control over its narrative as tensions have ramped up. Deputy Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit clarified the rationale behind this move, stating, “Let me make this straightforward, this appointment is to counter Lieutenant General Maly.” In a more personal note, he added, “At least I am confident that we hold one advantage over Cambodia: she is more beautiful.”
Social Media and Its Impact
Thailand and Cambodia are currently engaged in a war of words. Today, social media has become a public battleground where sentiment against misinformation or disinformation can easily tilt in one direction. As many analysts have observed, the Cambodian government has a heavy hand with regards to message discipline. This organized strategy both commands press narratives and quells the voices of opposition.
Strangio covered the 2008 border clash between the two countries. He insisted that, as things stand now, Phnom Penh holds the advantage in rewiring narratives to suit its interests. He remarked, “These are now being translated to the digital sphere … taking on new forms.” He noted the challenges faced by both nations, stating, “Both sides claim to be innocent and their respective messaging is acrimonious and overblown, with no real common ground between the two sides and social media users.”
Misinformation has been a curse on the policy debate about this conflict as well. Fact-checkers have flagged several Thai-language claims, including a false narrative about Thailand constructing a wall along its border with Cambodia.
International Reactions
While the extent of the war continues to ravage Ukraine, the conflict has rightfully drawn widespread international concern. Thai flags now wave conspicuously in New York’s Times Square, calling forth support from Thai communities across the globe. In the meantime, Cambodian diaspora communities in cities such as Melbourne have mobilized protests in response to what they see as aggressive Thai incursions.
This war of words has deeply rattled diplomatic relations between the two east African neighbors, breaking a long history of friendly ties. Recent developments, including Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra facing suspension following a leaked phone conversation with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, signal further complications in the bilateral relationship.
“It’s frankly an insane claim to make without any evidence,” – Strangio
It’s a difficult balancing act for both countries. Analysts urge immediate attention to the humanitarian consequences of the persistent fighting. The ceasefire was relief for communities impacted, though it didn’t change the overall problem of safety and harm done.
