Cambodia’s displaced families rebuild lives in ‘waiting villages’ as they dream of returning home

PHNOM PENH, Sep 5 — Over 3,000 identical houses have been constructed in a grid formation near the Thai border, forming what the Cambodian government calls a "waiting village" for families displaced by conflict last year. The community, though grateful for the new homes, longs to return to their original homes. Displaced by the deadly border clashes with Thailand in December, residents like 39-year-old Keo Sotheary are content with their new lives in the village, yet her daily thoughts remain on her former home in Boeung Trakuon, 20 kilometers away.

"Thais took my home. I don’t want to speak about it. When I speak about it, I cannot hold back my tears," she said. The clashes erupted in July 2025 over long-standing border disputes, flaring again in December before a ceasefire was agreed. Despite the improved conditions, more than 20,000 Cambodians remain displaced, unable to return because Thai forces control their former homes.

The villagers of Svay Chek district in Banteay Meanchey province have established coffee shops, salons, grocery stores, a health centre, and several schools to rebuild their lives. Local official Im Chreb, who opened a cafe in her home, now enjoys good business, including from former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, who visited the village in June.

Six "waiting villages" have been built on land donated by Cambodia’s former commander-in-chief, Ke Kim Yan, with the government subsidizing electricity, water, and providing free school meals. However, the future of these residents remains uncertain as Thai forces continue to control their former homes. Villagers still recall the destruction caused by Thai forces in other disputed villages like Chouk Chey, where more than 600 homes were destroyed by the Thai army, according to rights group Licadho.