According to observers, incidents of violence have decreased since peace talks between the Barisan Revolution Nasional (BRN) and the Thai government began in 2013. These talks have also resulted in several temporary ceasefires, although not much has been done to reach a lasting resolution.
At the latest meeting facilitated by Malaysia on February 7 2024, the two parties agreed on the latest version of the Joint Comprehensive Plan Toward Peace (JCPP). This document covers reduction of violence, public consultations, and the search for a political solution to the conflict.
At that time, the two parties also discussed a ceasefire from March to April, coinciding with Ramadan and the Songkran festival. There have been no further developments since the discussion.
During an official visit to Thailand a few days later, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed his government’s commitment to helping resolve the long-standing rebellion in Thailand. Malaysia and Thailand share a land border.
“We must convince all parties, both in Thailand itself, in the southern region, and even some in Malaysia, to understand and respect peace as a primary consideration,” said Anwar, as quoted by the Associated Press.
Gen. Pramote Prom-In and a former BRN member – both of whom have direct information about the latest negotiations – told CNA that a ceasefire has not been agreed, as the two sides’ demands and expectations differ.
BRN asked that the Thai military be withdrawn from three provinces affected by the conflict. However, the military wants a ceasefire first to assess the decline in violent incidents, before implementing further measures to restore the situation.
According to Pramote, as a member of the government’s negotiating team, there are plans to open up “public space” for citizens with political views. Various civil society organizations and private companies are asked to support the dialogue.
He added that the two parties were holding technical discussions and trying to reach a “compromise” regarding joint steps in the JCPP rules, calling this situation positive for further discussions.
According to him, the two parties will meet again on April 28–30. He declined to provide details, as both sides agreed to only announce the broad outlines.
When asked about ceasefire plans, Gen. Pramote said this was “difficult” to achieve. He alluded to the possibility of the BRN using weapons indiscriminately, while security forces must comply with the law.
However, Gen. Pramote said government negotiators plan to restore conditions in the region within one to three years, depending on how quickly the level of violence decreases.
The plan includes the gradual lifting of emergency decrees in various regions, the return of rebels without prosecution, and the disbandment of security forces while retraining for other deployments, he explained.
“At every stage, we will face difficulties. It’s the same all over the world,” he added. “Most importantly we must continue the dialogue and inform the public.”
