Findings from the Seventh Peace Survey: Reflections on Meaningful Women’s Participation in Thailand’s Deep South through the Lens of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda

Abstract

This research article examines the perspectives of women in Thailand’s Deep South regarding their participation in the peace process. The study draws on data from the Seventh Peace Survey as well as the conceptual framework of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325), at a time when Thailand is in the process of developing its first National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (WPS National Action Plan). The analysis considers both the roles of women in the Deep South and the challenges they face in participating in decision-making processes, one of the four pillars of the WPS agenda: (1) prevention, (2) protection, (3) participation, and (4) relief and recovery.

Findings from the Seventh Peace Survey (1,312 respondents), together with qualitative data, reveal that women in the Deep South place the greatest importance on relief and recovery for affected individuals, the creation of safe spaces, and the protection of their rights and those of their communities. However, women’s participation in formal peace processes remains the least supported dimension. Despite this, women in the region overwhelmingly agree that women’s participation is essential for building justice and inclusive peace.

The findings further indicate that women in the Deep South possess strong ideas and perspectives regarding participation in peace processes at both formal and informal levels. When analyzed alongside the concepts and experiences of the WPS agenda or UNSCR 1325, the study suggests that promoting meaningful participation of women in the Deep South must begin with recognizing women as key stakeholders who hold important perspectives and capacities for contributing to peacebuilding at all levels, from community engagement to policy mechanisms.