A Nation United in a Powerful Call for Peace
Tens of thousands of Cambodians gathered in Phnom Penh on December 18, 2025, sending a clear and unified message calling for peace following Thailand’s renewed military aggression against Cambodia on December 7. The large scale public demonstration reflected deep national concern and a shared desire to protect stability, sovereignty, and human life. Citizens from all walks of life came together in a show of solidarity, reinforcing Cambodia’s longstanding commitment to peaceful resolution and regional harmony at a time of heightened tension along the border.
March for Peace Reflects Cambodia’s Commitment to Stability
The collective voices of the crowd were heard during the March for Peace Together for Peace, organized by the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia. The march began at the Night Market area, moved through Samdech Chuon Nath roundabout, and concluded at the park near the Independence Monument. Beyond symbolic unity, the event aimed to urge respect for the ceasefire and the peace agreement between Cambodia and Thailand, while demonstrating to the international community that Cambodia seeks dialogue and reconciliation rather than conflict.
Leadership Sends a Strong Message to the World
Leading the march, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Civil Service H.E. Hun Many, who also serves as President of the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia, emphasized the broader meaning behind the gathering. “We are all witnessing the consequences of war. This is the second border clash in the seven-month conflict, and the Cambodian people are fully aware of the dangers of war,” he said. His remarks underscored the collective awareness of the human cost of conflict and the urgency of preventing further escalation.
Humanitarian Impact Highlights the Cost of Conflict
H.E. Hun Many detailed the severe toll of the ongoing tensions, noting that 18 innocent civilians have lost their lives and 79 others have been injured. Approximately 470,000 people have been forced to flee their homes to seek safety, while more than 1,000 schools have been closed and critical infrastructure damaged. He also acknowledged that Thailand has suffered similar devastation, reinforcing that war brings loss on all sides. Over the past seven months, both Cambodian and Thai communities have endured fear, tragedy, and destruction, strengthening Cambodia’s call for peace and reconciliation.
Runners Rally in Solidarity Through RUN FOR OUR HEROES
In another powerful display of unity, more than 4,000 runners gathered at Koh Pich for RUN FOR OUR HEROES, a three kilometer charity run held in solidarity with Cambodian frontliners and displaced civilians affected by the border situation. Supported by the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia, The Many Foundation, and OCIC, and co organized by 16 running clubs, the event brought together the wider Phnom Penh community around a shared humanitarian mission.
Community Action Translates Into Direct Support
The charity run successfully raised over 16,000 dollars, with all funds donated through the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia to support frontline personnel and internally displaced families. The route remained within Koh Pich, starting and finishing at Elysee Tower, creating a safe and peaceful environment for runners, volunteers, and supporters to demonstrate collective action during a time of rising humanitarian needs.
Voices of Unity and Shared Responsibility
Participants emphasized that the event represented more than physical activity. “This event was a chance for our community to show that we are united, that we are standing with those facing hardship,” said Rohit Ouk, Veteran National runner and member of the Elite Runners, who returned following the withdrawal of all Cambodian athletes from the 2025 SEA Games. “Beyond the symbolic act of running together, every step contributes to a larger purpose: to support displaced families, helping them meet basic needs and feel the strength of our collective solidarity.” His words reflected the growing role of community driven initiatives in responding to national challenges.
Health, Safety, and Growing Humanitarian Needs
With more than 470,000 people displaced across seven provinces according to the Ministry of Interior, Koh Pich has become a focal point for solidarity, hosting donation sites and charity initiatives as needs continue to rise nationwide. To ensure participant wellbeing, Intercare Hospital and Khmer Medical Hospital deployed ambulances, doctors, and nurses on site, maintaining health and safety throughout the evening run.
Sport as a Platform for Peace and Hope
“This was not just a run. It was a peaceful gathering to call for unity and to express hope for peace, while standing alongside displaced civilians through collective action,” said Sreyleap SORN, Night Runners representative. Co organized by numerous running clubs across Phnom Penh, RUN FOR OUR HEROES highlighted how sport, civic responsibility, and compassion can come together to support those most affected during a challenging period for the nation.
Conclusion
Together, the March for Peace and RUN FOR OUR HEROES demonstrated the strength of Cambodia’s collective spirit in the face of adversity. From mass public gatherings to grassroots community initiatives, Cambodians have shown a shared commitment to peace, unity, and humanitarian support. These actions send a clear message domestically and internationally that Cambodia seeks stability, reconciliation, and a future free from conflict, grounded in solidarity and compassion for all affected communities.