Yem Sorach, a 19-year-old Buddhist monk.

I think that all people need to be peaceful. I was happy when the ICJ decided that both Thai and Cambodian troops must stay away from the disputed area. We have waited for this day for a long time. I think that Thailand must comply with the ICJ’s decision.

Pai Ney, a 40-year-old fisherwoman.

I just want Cambodia and Thailand to stop fighting. Thailand wanted to make war with Cambodia first, so when they withdraw their troops, the situation will be changed for the better. I don’t want Cambodia to lose any territory.

Som Sambo, a 21-year-old economics student at the Royal University of Law and Economics.

I hope Thailand will withdraw their troops from the area. I think Cambodia will comply with the decision and remove their troops, but I am unsure if Thailand will or not. As we know, Thailand negotiates with Cambodia to stop fighting, but they still create conflict time and time again.

Sou Reoun, a 21-year-old banking student at Build Bright University.

The ICJ decision not only ordered both countries to withdraw their troops, but also ordered ASEAN to monitor the disputed area ... Preah Vihear is a World Heritage site and I feel bad that it was damaged. I hope the chair of ASEAN will send observers [to the border area].

Chun Phiron, a 28-year-old construction worker.

I think it is so good to see Thailand ordered to withdraw troops. We don’t want to see our government spending so much money in the military sector because we are still a poor country. It is good that our military no longer has to face off with

Thai troops near Preah Vihear.

Chea Theary, a 31-year-old lotus vendor.

If our country goes to war, the economic situation will only get worse. If Thailand does not withdraw their troops, ASEAN and the international community must force them to leave. I think that when there is peace at Preah Vihear, there will be a lot of tourism there.

Interviews and photos by Sen David and Derek Stout