Thailand to Hold General Election Amid Escalating Border Conflict with Cambodia

Thailand is set to hold a general election on February 8, 2026, following Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's dissolution of the House of Representatives on December 12, 2025. This political development coincides with escalating military conflicts along the Thai-Cambodian border, resulting in significant casualties and displacement.

Anutin, who assumed office in September 2025, dissolved parliament after facing mounting pressure from the opposition People's Party over stalled constitutional reforms. The dissolution, endorsed by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, mandates an election within 45 to 60 days. The upcoming election will fill 500 parliamentary seats: 400 elected by constituency vote and 100 through party-list allocations. Each party can nominate up to three candidates for prime minister, with official results expected by April 9, 2026.

The political crisis is unfolding amid intensified military clashes along the 817-kilometer Thai-Cambodian border. Recent skirmishes have left at least 38 dead and displaced over half a million people. Both nations accuse each other of initiating hostilities, with Thailand conducting airstrikes in Cambodia's Siem Reap Province and Cambodia alleging that Thai bombings have endangered civilians in areas like Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap provinces.

The conflict has severely impacted border trade, with reports indicating a 99.5% decline, equating to a daily loss of approximately 500 million baht. The Federation of Thai Industries has warned that the clashes are inflicting severe damage on the border economy.

International efforts to mediate the conflict have been unsuccessful. U.S. President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia; however, both nations indicated ongoing conflict and a lack of consensus. Thai Prime Minister Anutin stated that Thailand would continue military action until it no longer perceived Cambodian threats.

The dissolution of parliament and the impending election have significant social and economic implications. The political instability may affect international confidence and cause significant economic consequences, ultimately eroding public trust in the parliamentary system and democratic governance.

The territorial dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has a long history, with both countries claiming areas along their shared border. The conflict has escalated into direct armed confrontation in the past, with both nations accusing each other of initiating hostilities. Ceasefire agreements have been brokered in the past but have often been short-lived.

As Thailand approaches its general election, the interplay between domestic political instability and international military conflict presents a complex scenario with far-reaching implications for the nation's governance, regional relations, and economic stability.