Although southern Thailand is a dynamic and diverse region socially, politically, and economically, it received little attention until the escalation of violence and instability. This book highlights the distinctive characteristics that make this region unique and the variety of cultures that contribute to its dynamic diversity.

Although southern Thailand is a dynamic and diverse region socially, politically, and economically, it received little attention until the recent escalation of violence and instability. While the twelve articles in this collection were written before this period of crisis, the issues they probe reveal some of the enduring features of this unique border region and provide a backdrop for the present unrest.

The wide range of issues and ideas presented in this collection highlight the distinctive characteristics that make this region unique and the variety of cultures that contribute to its dynamic diversity.