The conflict between the separatist insurgent group Barisan Revolusi Nasional and the Thai state has led to ongoing violence in the three southern border provinces and four districts in Songkhla province. Between 2004 and August 2023, this conflict resulted in 7,520 deaths and 13,968 injuries. In response, the government has enforced special laws, including the Martial Law Act, the Public Administration in Emergency Situations Act, and the Internal Security Act. However, these measures have not significantly improved the situation. Instead, local communities have adapted by developing informal practices, some of which resemble aspects of unarmed civilian protection.
This project aimed to address the following questions:
- How can communities in Thailand’s southern provinces develop their own unarmed civilian protection programmes?
- What practical techniques of unarmed civilian protection from around the world can be adapted to guide community practices in the region?
- What existing unarmed civilian protection strategies can enhance security for communities in the southern border provinces?
RESEARCH TEAM
- Fareeda Panjor, Prince of Songkla University (principal investigator)
- Anchana Heemmina, Duayjai Group
- Yasmin Sattar, Prince of Songkla University
- Nonviolent Peaceforce Philippines (project partner)
RESEARCH SUMMARY
This study employed participatory action research in Thailand’s southern border provinces, engaging a total of 69 participants from three communities:
- Talo-Nang-Aman Community, Bangpo Subdistrict, Mueang District, Narathiwat Province
- Sakoh Community, Tha Sap Subdistrict, Mueang District, Yala Province
- Piyamumang Community, Piyamumang Subdistrict, Yaring District, Pattani Province
Participants included individuals involved in community protection efforts, youth groups, women’s groups, community leaders, and religious leaders. The research process began in February 2023 with discussions on violence prevention. This was followed by practical training workshops and knowledge- sharing sessions on Unarmed Civilian Protection (UCP) between August and September 2023. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted from June to August 2023, and focus group discussions took place in February 2024. The project also facilitated consultations and knowledge exchanges with international experts.
Research across the three communities revealed that while overall violence has declined, local security concerns persist. Key issues include:
- Ongoing violent incidents
- The presence of armed security personnel
- Military patrols near Tadika (Islamic schools)
- Community lockdowns and house searches
- Frequent security checkpoint stops
- Restrictions on nighttime movement
- Drug-related violence
- Targeted attacks on village heads and local leaders
Most villagers reported uncertainty about detecting warning signs before violence occurs. Even Village Development and Self-Defense Volunteers (VDVs), who play a role in local security, often fail to recognize early indicators. Some villagers noted an increase in patrols before house-surrounding operations, but overall, there was a lack of structured early warning systems. Community members largely view safety as the responsibility of leaders, particularly VDVs and village heads, especially at night when security forces are frequent targets. While VDVs and community leaders receive training, some research participants suggested that villagers should also be trained in self-protection and how to report unusual activities.
For self-protection, villagers primarily share security information through LINE messaging groups. However, many remain uncertain about how to respond to potential threats. Security measures are often reactive, implemented only after an incident has already occurred. Moreover, the community lacks clear protocols for handling violent situations. Typically, authorities are informed only after an explosion or attack, leading to the subsequent arrival of police and military personnel for inspection.
For most villagers, the home is considered the safest place. If the home is not secure, people gather in larger community spaces such as mosques. However, some believe that no place is truly safe, as mosques and Tadika schools have also been subjected to security operations.
The study also examined community-based conflict resolution approaches. Village leaders, including headmen, religious figures, and sub-district chiefs, typically mediate disputes. Community justice centers serve as neutral spaces where both Buddhists and Muslims feel comfortable discussing conflicts and seeking resolution.
Based on these findings, the project has developed broad guidelines and recommendations to enhance community security in Thailand’s southern border provinces, based on unarmed civilian protection principles and strategies.
RESEARCH OUTPUTS
Report on UCP in Southern Thailand
A report on The Research on UCP in Southern Thailand: Developing Civilian Protection Guidelines for Violence-prone Communities. The report explores the conflict in Southern Thailand, and community perceptions in regard to peace, violence and safety. It provides recommendations on civilian protection in the region. The report is available in Thai.
Short Film: Ramadan, Faith, Relationships, Peace
This short film explores the impact of the conflict in southern Thailand on Malay Muslims, and their struggle to express their own identity and culture.