Critical policy discourse analysis on the conflict resolution in Thailand’s deep South

Abstract

This study analyzes discourse on conflict resolutions in Thailand’s Deep South. It is based on the critical concept that discourse defines gazing and codification of problem issues with specified language, signs, and taxonomy. Public policy is dependent on these constructed things leading to problematization, agenda-making, and solutions. National strategies and integrated programs to rectify the problem of the Deep South were designed and implemented by Thailand’s 2014–2019 military junta, but in the process, it confronted dialectical relations between discursive policy and other elements. Based on the empirical research, the article shows that the hegemonic discourse of Thailand’s military junta after 2014 coup led to discourse about the efficient command and control of state administration. The consequent dynamic process of discourse had evolved around this discursive power and formulated the strong public policy statement about integrated program to rectify problems in the Deep South. But local people have different argumentation from the state, which is possible to transform to a new policy problematization and contestation of the hegemony.