The recent escalation of violence will heighten awareness about the on-going crisis in the south, but it should not serve as an obstacle to the establishment of political reforms that could contribute to a resolution to the protracted conflict.  However, it is still questionable whether the current government will shift direction and introduce creative new measures that reflect greater flexibility and sensitivity toward the inclusion of a Malay nation within the territorial boundaries of Thailand.

This report analyzes the trends of violence in the southern border provinces in June of 2009, when the crisis in the conflict-ridden region intensified once again. The statistical data from this period indicate a sharp rise in violent incidents, likely impacted by the Songkhla Provincial Court's controversial ruling on the Tak Bai case and the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) meetings in May. With this significant escalation of violence, people in the region are growing increasingly concerned about its impact on their lives. It is paramount that Thai authorities increase their efforts toward resolving this long-standing conflict.

The Deep South Watch documented this event and recorded the presentations delivered by a human rights activist and highly-ranked military commander.