Southern Thailand Gripped by Violence

[Jacob Maslow]

Southern Thailand may not be as dangerous as Iraq or Kabul, but violence is an everyday reality for those who live there. While this region of the country is known for its breathtaking beaches and scenic views, there’s a dark side to the southern region; an area that’s fighting for autonomy.

Rebel groups in the south don’t typically target the civilian population, but all too often, they get caught in the crossfire. Civil servants, those who carry out the government’s work, are often the ones who get caught in the middle. For simply being a government worker and doing your job, you may wind up being dragged out of your car and shot.

Unfortunately, clashes between the military and separatist groups are far too common in the country’s three southern border provinces. The threat has grown to a point where the government has organized a militia of sorts. Groups of civilians are now being armed with shotguns and pistols.

Despite the turmoil, it’s hard to ignore southern Thailand’s beauty. Without the violence and conflict, it would be a tourist’s paradise. But there are no tourists here. Neither foreign nor Thai tourists travel visit the south because of its fierce reputation. But if both sides could come to an understanding, everyone – both locals and foreigners – could once again enjoy the beach-filled paradise, rather than avoiding it altogether.

-- 2015-04-29

[Tomtomtom69]

Good editorial. It's simply bizarre that a conflict like this is even taking place in one of the world's most touristy countries, if you believe TAT's figures that is. Of course there's no denying that Thailand is popular, but it's mind-boggling that most tourists to Thailand aren't even aware of the far south's insurgency, yet the majority of prospective visitors to neighboring Myanmar are well aware of that country's struggles with armed rebel groups (although it's becoming safer).

[garyk]

It really is a shame. A birders paradise. I go once a year, but am very careful.

If not for the dangers I would live there year around when I was not traveling.

I know some wonderful people that live there.