The International Crisis Group (ICG) has published a new report titled Recruiting Militants in Southern Thailand. The Executive Summary is available here and the full report, as a PDF, is here.

The following information particularly caught my eye:

Insurgents draw on local culture to invoke traditional oaths to discipline their own ranks, though such practices alienate them from the religious purists attached to the global jihad. Ancient charms and spells are applied to protect fighters from harm, coexisting with YouTube videos and propaganda circulated on VCDs.

This isn’t exactly a news-flash but it is always good to be reminded that it is not just in Bangkok that supernatural beliefs influence political action.

Thanks to Michael for pointing out the ICG report. More substantial analysis from commentators is very welcome.