Loving culture, living peace: the link between cultural heritage engagement and peace values in Cambodia
by: Di Chen, Pheaktra Phal, Songqiang Bai, Thoriq Tri Prabowo & Vibol Peuo
Received 02 Sep 2025, Accepted 04 Mar 2026, Published online: 14 Mar 2026
Cite this article https://doi.org/10.1080/13527258.2026.2642609

Abstract: Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Cambodia-Thailand border, sustained damage during the 2025 conflict between the two countries. As the proverb reminds us, ‘water can overturn a boat but can also carry it’, this illustrates the dual role of cultural heritage as both a trigger of conflict and a source of reconciliation. While political narratives framed heritage as a flashpoint, this study, based on a field survey in three Cambodian provinces, shows that public attitudes highlight its peacebuilding potential. Quantitative data from 348 respondents were analysed to assess cultural heritage engagement (CHE) and peace values (PV), examine demographic influences, and explore their relationship. Complementary qualitative interviews further captured public perspectives on heritage protection and peacebuilding amid conflict. Both findings reveal the positive role of grassroots engagement with heritage in fostering reconciliation and advancing sustainable peace.

Keywords: Public perspectives; Cultural heritage engagement; Peace values; Preah Vihear Temple; Cambodia

Citation: Chen, D., Phal, P., Bai, S., Prabowo, T. T., & Peuo, V. (2026). Loving culture, living peace: The link between cultural heritage engagement and peace values in Cambodia. International Journal of Heritage Studies. https://doi.org/10.1080/13527258.2026.2642609

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