What compensation do Cambodian farmers seek from Mitr Phol?

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Cambodian Farmers Seek RM533,056 in Compensation from Mitr Phol

Cambodian farmers involved in a class-action lawsuit against Thai sugar company Mitr Phol are seeking 4 million baht in compensation, equivalent to RM533,056. This legal action, initiated on behalf of approximately 3,000 individuals, centres on accusations of violent land dispossession and destruction of homes to facilitate plantation expansion. The lawsuit, filed in 2018, commenced hearings in Bangkok on June 12.
Lawsuit Details and Accusations

The class-action lawsuit represents around 3,000 people who allege that Mitr Phol forcibly removed families from their land and burned down their homes to clear the way for plantations. Hoy Mai, a 56-year-old woman from Oddar Meanchey province and one of the plaintiffs, was arrested in 2009 for protesting the loss of her land and subsequently spent eight months in prison. The plaintiffs are seeking 4 million baht (RM533,056) to rebuild their lives.
Mitr Phol's Previous Stance and Withdrawal

Mitr Phol has previously stated that its investments in Cambodia were made with assurances from the government that land concessions were processed legally and transparently. The company has denied human rights violations. By 2015, Mitr Phol had withdrawn its operations from Cambodia. Although the company publicly stated it received concessions legally and recommended the government return the land to communities after its 2014 withdrawal, farmers reportedly did not receive compensation.
Impact on Affected Communities

The land concessions, which reportedly covered about 9,430 hectares across 26 villages between 2008 and 2009, have had a profound impact on the affected communities. According to Equitable Cambodia, only about half of the affected households managed to reclaim their land, and farmers received no compensation. The loss of land has had severe consequences, including forcing children out of school, compelling villagers to lease land, take on construction jobs, or migrate to Thailand for work.
Broader Implications and Official Findings

This lawsuit is considered a significant test case for holding Thai companies accountable for human rights violations committed in other countries. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of Thailand previously concluded that human rights violations had occurred in this case and that Mitr Phol bore responsibility. The NHRC recommended that Mitr Phol provide compensation in line with United Nations guiding principles on business and human rights.

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What compensation do Cambodian farmers seek from Mitr Phol?

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