Buddhist Women and the Peace Process in the Context of the Ethno-religious Dynamics in the Deep South of Thailand

Abstract

This article explores the roles, goals, and approaches of Buddhist women in the Deep South peace process. The dynamic situation has fluctuated in intensity, and there have been intermittent tense relations between Buddhist and Muslim communities. The researcher interviewed Buddhist women and male leaders who were affiliated with organizations based upon Buddhist identity. The participatory observational method was used to understand the activities of Buddhist groups/organizations. The concept of gender provides an analytical framework to examine the roles of Buddhist women who, despite their small number, were able to voice their concerns and enhance their participation in the peace process. These women become visible in public spaces within civil society, and on the official dialogue platforms of delegations both from the government and resistance movement parties. In recent years, Buddhist women able to claim their space within the peace process where they have helped shape both the Buddhist agenda and establish negotiating positions.