Nationalism Policy and Assimilation Policy for Malay-Muslim People in Southern Border Provinces of Thailand: Impact from past to present

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze Nationalism Policy and Assimilation Policy that prominent policies after Regime Reformation period (from absolute monarchy to democracy) to World War II period. The impact from these policies have an affect on Malay –Muslim People in Southern Border Provinces of Thailand. Malay –Muslim People in deep south of Thailand who have specific identity are assimilated to Thainess.

The definition of “Thainess” originated within the context of the centralized political structure under Nationalism Policy and Assimilation Policy in 1930s.Thainess in mainstream neglect identity right in deep south that originate the protracted conflict.

This article is documentary research which use research papers and literature review on historical perspective and Public Administrative lenses for synthesizing the policy recommendations for resolving the protracted conflict in southern border provinces of Thailand. The significant policy recommendations are composed three main points:1) Decentralization from central or State power 2) Empowerment the people in conflict area sustainably by creating and pushing social trust 3) Respecting and accepting the different identities in conflict areas for producing positive peace in Southern Border provinces of Thailand.