Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosts Academic Seminar on Integrating Human and Traditional Security Lessons for Thailand’s Southern Border Provinces

On 5 March 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized an academic seminar entitled "Lessons Learned on Security through the Integration of Human Security and Traditional Security in the Context of Thailand's Southern Border Provinces" at Narathip Hall, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The seminar was presided over and officially opened by Ms. Sirilak Niyom, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs.

The seminar was moderated by Associate Professor Surachart Horachaikul, Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University. Distinguished speakers included Assistant Professor Dr. Panupat Jittieng, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University; Assistant Professor Dr. Pailin Kittiserichai, Faculty of Social Sciences, Kasetsart University; and Mr. Chairat Sirivat, former Ambassador attached to the Ministry. The event was attended by more than 150 participants, including representatives from government agencies, civil society, and university students.

During the seminar, the speakers examined lessons learned from several international case studies, including the conflict between the Sultanate of Oman and the Dhofar insurgency, internal conflict arising from apartheid policies in the Republic of South Africa, and the conflict between the Government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). These cases illustrate conflicts that emerged from power imbalances between governments and dissenting groups, particularly regarding political participation, socio-economic development, and access to resources, which in turn led to resistance against the state and the use of violence.

The exchange of views on these case studies provided participants with insights into systematic approaches to violence reduction and conflict management. The speakers emphasized the importance of integrated measures encompassing security, development, confidence-building between the state and the public, and the design of appropriate dialogue processes.

In addition, participants discussed the importance of maintaining a balance between traditional security, which focuses on safeguarding the safety and stability of the state, and human security, which prioritizes quality of life, justice, and public trust. Both dimensions must be pursued in a coordinated and complementary manner in order to achieve sustainable long-term stability. The speakers also underscored the importance of effective public communication and strong political will to resolve conflicts through peaceful means, including both formal and informal negotiation processes. These lessons may serve as useful case studies for developing approaches for Thailand.

"The seminar reflects the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' commitment to promoting an integrated approach to development and security, and highlights its role in supporting human resource development and fostering international understanding on issues related to development in Thailand's Southern Border Provinces."