Paris, July 30, 2025 — UNESCO has expressed its readiness to provide assistance in protecting cultural heritage sites in both Cambodia and Thailand following recent hostilities. In a statement released today, the organization welcomed efforts to achieve lasting peace, recognizing it as essential for safeguarding the region's cultural heritage.

UNESCO is actively monitoring cultural heritage sites, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, using satellite imagery to assess potential damage caused by the conflict. Preliminary information suggests that hostilities may have impacted cultural heritage in both countries.

In accordance with its mandate, UNESCO is sharing geographical coordinates of cultural heritage sites with the States Parties involved to facilitate their protection. The organization reminded all parties of their obligations under international law, specifically referencing the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict and the 1972 Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage.

UNESCO emphasized its readiness to offer technical assistance to ensure the protection of these sites, assess potential damage, and implement any necessary safeguarding measures. It has expressed its willingness to support both Cambodia and Thailand in their efforts to protect their cultural heritage.

The statement from UNESCO reinforces the organization's commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage worldwide, especially in regions affected by conflict.^{photo of The Malaysian Army Chief of Staff, the British Ambassador, the Singaporean Ambassador, and various attachés and regiments in Cambodia, on the morning of July 30, inspected and observed along the Cambodian-Thai border and the Cambodian temple of Preah Vihear to ensure the procedures and successful implementation of the ceasefire agreement between the Cambodian and Thai armies.}