South Thailand insurgency facts for kids

Quick facts for kids South Thailand insurgency
Map of the southern provinces of Thailand showing the Malay-Muslim majority areas
Date 4 January 2004 (2004-01-04) – present (21 years, 5 months, 3 weeks and 2 days) Location Southern Thailand (Songkhla, Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat) Status Ongoing Emergency Decree imposed for Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat as of July 2005

The South Thailand insurgency is an ongoing conflict in three southern provinces of Thailand: Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala. Most people living in these areas are Muslim Malays, not ethnic Thai. This conflict involves groups fighting against the Thai government.

Why the Conflict Started

This conflict has roots in the 19th century. Back then, the British and the King of Siam (which is now Thailand) made an agreement. They decided on the border between Siam and Malaya.

Because of this agreement, the British took some areas like Kedah and Kelantan. The region of Pattani became part of Siam. The local leader, called a sultan, was removed. His kingdom was then divided into three provinces.

Since that time, many Malay people in this region have wanted to be independent. Some also wish to join Malaysia as a state.

What's Happening Now

The unrest in southern Thailand is a major challenge for the country. There is an armed struggle against the government. There are also many violent attacks, which are often seen as acts of terrorism.

Because of these problems, some Thai families have had to move away. Their lives changed a lot, and they were worried about their safety.

Images for kids

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  Malay Muslim provinces in Southern Thailand with northern Malaysia.

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  Original arms of the PULO and GMIP

See also

In Spanish: Insurgencia en el sur de Tailandia para niños