Organized Movements and Violence in Thailand’s Southern Border Provinces: Push and Pull Factors, its Operations, and Possible Solutions

Abstract

This article analyzes the relationship between an organized movement and violent incidents in the southern border provinces of Thailand.  It contends that there are movements that are systematically organized and involves in certain types of violent activities in the areas. Based on in-depth interviews with individuals, document research, workshops, seminars, and facts collected from violent incidents, the findings support the argument above that there is an organized movement, with its members involving in violent activities. It also discovers that members of the movement are victims of violence as well in certain circumstances.

                    The article points out that there is a need to further study the role and activities of a number of movements in Thailand’s southern border provinces, in particular the Barisan Revolusi Nasional Melayu Patani (BRN). It argues that a better understanding of those movements-in terms of push and pull factors, their operations, and supports-will lead to a more comprehensive solution to the conflicts.