Language is a symbol of belonging, and a representation of community
and culture. It can be considered a ‘tool for communication’, ‘an
obstructive barrier’,1
and ‘an automatic signalling system, second only to
race in identifying targets for possible privilege or discrimination’.2
Language acts as a vital mechanism for states as it allows them to extend
their reach to individuals and communities.3
In Thailand, the Thai
language is an important aspect of national identity, as well as both the
national language and the only official language in Thailand.4
This article will examine the language rights of the Malays of Southern
Thailand, with specific reference to international human rights law, namely
freedom of expression, non-discrimination, and the rights of minorities to
use their language with other members of the group.5
This will be done
through an analysis of language policies imposed by the government of
Thailand and the consequences they have for the Malay minority.
To date, Thailand has ratified the International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights (ICCPR) in 1997, the International Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) in 2003, the
International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights