IDB and Thai Parliamentarians Discuss Peace Process in the BARMM

Maguindanao del Norte – On November 20, 2024, the Independent Decommissioning Body (IDB) hosted delegations from Thailand’s Parliamentary Ad-hoc Committee and the Southeast Asia Women Peace Mediators (SEAWPM) at the Secured Arms Storage Area (SASA) in Barangay Tugaig, Barira, Maguindanao del Norte. The visit provided a platform for open dialogue on the ongoing decommissioning process of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The IDB and the Joint Peace and Security Committee (JPSC) presented their mandates, milestones, and collaborative efforts, sparking insightful discussions with the Thai parliamentarians on the on-going strategies for achieving sustainable peace in the region.

The delegation’s visit was part of a cross-learning exchange aimed at understanding the Bangsamoro peace process and drawing lessons for Thailand’s efforts to address security challenges in its southern border provinces. The discussions emphasized key elements of peacebuilding, including conflict resolution, governance, and reintegration strategies, while also highlighting the importance of inclusivity, particularly the role of women in mediating and sustaining peace. Comparative dialogues with stakeholders such as the Bangsamoro Government, Bangsamoro Parliament, and OPAPRU enriched the exchange of ideas.

Concluding the visit, both parties reaffirmed their shared commitment to peacebuilding and sustainable development. The Thai delegation lauded the IDB’s efforts and expressed optimism about applying lessons from BARMM’s success to their own context. This collaboration underscores the value of international partnerships in addressing complex conflict dynamics and fostering a peaceful and prosperous future for affected communities.

#MAM