Conflict continues between Buddhists and Muslims in Thailand
26 June 2009
Ten Muslims were shot and killed during evening prayers at the Al Furqan mosque in southern Thailand Monday, June 22. Fears have surfaced that animosity between Thai Buddhists and Muslims is developing into a sectarian conflict. Many local citizens are growing increasingly skeptical of the Thai government's ability to quell the violence.
The historically Buddhist-majority Thailand annexed its Muslim-majority southern territory in the early 20th century. Since then, many Muslims have expressed frustration and say they are treated as substandard citizens, lacking equal educational and occupational opportunities. The initial outbreak of conflict between the religious groups began in January 2004, when Muslim separatists galvanized a movement against the government, sparking a reaction by the Thai military that left more than 3,500 people dead. As the military became increasingly aware of its ineffectiveness against the insurgents, the decision was made to arm civilian self-defense groups, almost all of whom were Buddhist. This strategy apparently backfired as violence has increased between the two groups.
Please pray for the leaders and citizens of each Buddhist and Muslim community. Pray for wisdom for the Thai administration and military and for peace between the two sides. Finally, pray that steps would be taken to provide Thai Muslims with adequate educational opportunities and to address other systemic issues.
Read more:
http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2009/06/22/military/zec4ecdd8823a05bf882575dd006ff58d.txt
Last updated 26 June 2009