The immobility paradox in Thailand’s southern border provinces

Abstract

While the general literature analysing mobility patterns in Thailand’s southern border provinces largely indicates insecurity and violence as precipitating factors for migration, such explanations fail to fully explain why the majority of those who migrate do so within the conflict area rather than away from it. Based on fieldwork, this article argues that while a lack of security measures and higher levels of violence in rural areas have induced people to migrate to more urban areas, a variety of factors, including emotional attachment to homeland, and cultural and religious considerations have influenced peoples’ decision to stay. Most importantly, the accumulation of ‘insider advantages’, enable most to adapt and seek employment despite the present circumstances.