Blaming discrimination, Cambodian students flee Thailand

At least 300 Cambodians studying and living in Thailand have returned home after reportedly facing discrimination and abuse from Thai authorities and ultranationalists following armed clashes at the border, reports Hang Punreay for the Khmer Times.

According to a report from Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron, 307 Cambodian students left Thailand for home from 26-29 July. Most had travelled from the Ubon Ratchathani province through Laos and entered Cambodia via Stung Treng province.

Him Chamroeun, studying in Bangkok, said he left Thailand yesterday with other Cambodians. He cited the border dispute as the reason for his departure. “I was afraid to leave my room in the evening and at night, particularly for densely populated areas.” Some students have even given up their scholarships due to pressure and fear, he said, adding some of them had experienced bullying and discrimination by Thai citizens, fellow students, and even educators.
Full report on the Khmer Times site