Conflict Sensitivity Assessment: ECHO HIP II Thailand 2025

The ECHO HIP II project operates in this highly volatile context, and conflict dynamics have significantly influenced its implementation. Several factors of conflict could impact the project implementation. Security risks and violent incidents have disrupted activities. For example, a bombing in Bajoh sub-district in mid-July 2023 delayed community Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP) training. Community mistrust and bureaucratic barriers have slowed engagement with local authorities, as some residents fear state surveillance and retaliation for working with CSOs. Besides, traditional and religious conservatism has required careful navigation by project partners, particularly in engaging LGBTQI+ youth and marginalized groups.
Despite these challenges, the ECHO HIP II project has had positive effects on social cohesion. It has provided a platform for collaboration between different stakeholders, including youth groups, religious leaders, and government agencies, fostering trust and joint disaster preparedness efforts. The project has facilitated connections between hard-to-reach communities and state services. For example, Nusantara was able to link community members with the Mental Health Office for psychosocial support. However, its focus on Muslim-majority communities has unintentionally excluded Buddhist communities, highlighting the need for more inclusive engagement strategies in future phases

Children in conflict-affected areas experience profound psychological and social impacts. The presence of military checkpoints and frequent violent incidents near schools create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity. Some children have lost family members to insurgent attacks or military crackdowns, leading to trauma and distrust toward authorities. Additionally, education is often disrupted due to security concerns. Youth in both Bangoisinae and Bajoh sub-districts express frustration over being excluded from decision-making processes, with many feeling that their voices are ignored by local leaders. Social and economic pressures also affect children, as poverty and unemployment drive some toward drug use or association with insurgent groups. These factors underscore the urgent need for conflict-sensitive child protection mechanisms and inclusive youth engagement in community development.