Cambodia cancels 2026 Water Festival in Phnom Penh amid border crisis, displacement concerns

Cambodia's Royal Government has decided to suspend the 2026 Water Festival celebrations in the capital, Phnom Penh, prioritizing the resolution of the ongoing border situation with Thailand and the welfare of displaced civilians. The festivities, originally slated for November 23-25 along the Tonle Sap River, will not take place in the capital.

The official announcement came via a government circular signed by Prime Minister Hun Manet on June 25. While the capital's main events are canceled, the circular permits celebrations at the provincial level to continue, contingent on local traditions and resources. Despite the suspension of national festivities, the three-day public holiday associated with the festival remains in effect as per the 2026 public holiday decree.

As of June 30, a significant number of Cambodians, totaling 21,425, are still unable to return to their homes. This displacement is attributed to the Thai military's occupation of their villages, including Prey Chan, Chouk Chey, and the Boeng Trakuon area, or the lingering threat of explosive remnants of war (ERW), according to the Ministry of Interior.

Prime Minister Manet has directed government working groups to focus on the well-being of displaced citizens, soldiers, and the families of those injured or martyred defending the territory. Efforts are also underway to facilitate employment opportunities for Cambodian workers returning from Thailand, as instructed to the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister urged continuous monitoring of citizens' livelihoods, economic stability, and production chains. The government is also preparing for potential water shortages in 2027 due to the El Nino phenomenon, instructing authorities to conserve water during the upcoming rainy season and ensure flood preparedness. Public order and safety are to be maintained through the strict implementation of the "Safe Village-Commune" policy.