The paradox of nationalism

This past week, Cambodia and Thailand experienced another tense moment in their roller-coaster relationship as both presented their case on the Preah Vihear Temple dispute at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague.

The first time the two countries took the issue to the ICJ was in 1962, and the court ruled in favour of Cambodia by nine votes to three. Following that ruling, there were several diplomatic and sporadic military clashes. The latest military stand-off occurred from 2008-2011, following Cambodia's successful move to have Preah Vihear listed as a Unesco World Heritage site.

As the military stand-off culminated and war became imminent, Cambodia felt compelled to bring the dispute back to the ICJ, requesting the court to interpret its 1962 ruling.

Judging from a series of events taking place since the 1962 verdict, some analysts remain cautious about the prospect that the protracted dispute will be put completely to rest by the pending verdict of the court. Indeed, some Thai ultra-nationalist groups have already made clear their intention to ignore the court ruling, expected before the year end, if it is not in favour of Thailand.

Few doubt the intention and ability of these groups to ignite new tension domestically, and externally with Cambodia, if they are not satisfied with the decision. The question is how far they will go at the risk of further damaging the image and interests of their own country. Oddly enough, it is the very same image and interests they proudly claim to champion that they are hurting.

Nationalism is a well-oiled machine in Thailand, as it is in Cambodia. It is important to point out a key difference between the two. In Cambodia, the so-called nationalist view and interpretation of history with neighbouring countries are practically based on numerous independent studies and documents published by credible Western scholars and researchers. Thai nationalist sentiment, on the other hand, is predominantly influenced by history books written by Thai historians, under various forms and degrees of de facto censorship.

Some Thai scholars have called for a comprehensive reform in the teaching of Thai history, especially the history of Thailand's relations with neighbours. In a recent article, "Biased Views of Neighbouring Nations Must Change" in The Nation (April 20), professors Thamrongsak Petchlertana and Akkhaphong Khamkhun were candid. "The teaching … should be reformed to eradicate Thais' superiority complex and condescending attitude, mistrust and even hatred towards its closest neighbours."

Cambodia is cautiously hopeful that this view will gain wide mainstream support, and that Thailand will be resilient enough to withstand fake nationalism and be able to persuade relevant Thai nationalist groups to close their epic but pointless chapter of Preah Vihear for good.

Davan Long

Montreal

Latest stories in this category

• Myanmar is not yet free of the ghosts of the past


• Although the country has taken steps toward..


• Tasteless and pointless


• The paradox of nationalism

We Recommend

• No tattoos for Obama daughters - or else!


• Washington - The first daughters might face an..


• Former Nation reporter found dead in her flat


• More calls for action on baht

Comments conditions

Users are solely responsible for their comments.We reserve the right to remove any comment and revoke posting rights for any reason withou prior notice.

Article source: http://www.thethailandlinks.com/2013/04/26/the-paradox-of-nationalism/