The Battle Over Preah Vihear

Abstract

The article discusses the battle between Cambodia and Thailand over ownership of Preah Vihear, a Khmer temple complex. The site, which is important to the cultural heritage of both nations, is located just a few hundred feet inside Cambodia's border. The conflict stems from a border dispute between the two countries which dates to the early 20th century. Between 2011 and 2013, the complex, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been the scene of armed conflict. Comments by Cambodian archaeologist Pheng Sam Oeun are presented.