Muslim Countries and the Supportive Roles for Peacebuilding in the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand
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Abstract
This study examines the roles of Muslim countries (Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Iran, Malaysia, and Indonesia) in Thailand's southern border conflict from 2004-2019, focusing on their motivations and impacts. Using qualitative methods including document analysis, interviews, and focus groups, the research explores these countries' involvement across multiple levels of engagement. The findings reveal diverse patterns of support, from Malaysia's role as an official facilitator to humanitarian and educational assistance from Gulf states. Identity politics and shared religious bonds emerge as key factors shaping engagement, while geopolitical interests and international image-building also play important roles. The study contributes to understanding how religious identity influences conflict resolution processes and provides recommendations for leveraging these relationships to support peacebuilding efforts.
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