Posts by Ismail Wolff

From the field Hope for lasting peace in Burma

Ismail Wolff, Insight on Conflict’s local correspondent for Burma (Myanmar), looks at the prospects for peace in the country. Recent developments have raised hopes that Burma is on the path to securing lasting peace. Ceasefires have been signed with many armed groups, freedoms are opening up, and open elections are due to be held. Ismail highlights the need for genuine political dialogue to address the underlying grievance behind the conflicts in order to turn these welcome reforms into sustainable peace. Read more >>>

From the field Thailand elections unlikely to deliver political stability

Thailand heads to the polls on 3 July to elect its next government. With the political system weakened by years of extra-parliamentary interventions, rampant corruption and political instability, the country remains deeply divided. Rather than resolving the political conflict, the election is likely to lead to further confrontations, be they in Parliament, in the streets or through military intervention. Read more >>>

From the field Slow wait for justice in Thailand

On 12 March 2011 it will be seven years since human rights lawyer Somchai Neelaphaijit was abducted by policemen from a busy Bangkok street. He is presumed dead. His body has never been found. Attempts to bring the perpetrators to justice have been thwarted at every turn, highlighting the persistent obstructions faced by victims of extrajudicial violence and the enduring problem of impunity – all of which remain major obstacles to the resolution of ongoing conflicts, not only in the restive southern border provinces, but throughout Thailand. Read more >>>