Quarterly Progress Report – Year 3, Quarter 3

The project aims to address citizens' priorities and grievances, reduce drivers of latent and violent conflict, and strengthen social inclusion and cohesion. Together works closely with the government to strengthen its capacity to listen to, understand, and communicate with citizens, while collaborating with CSOs to improve their capacity to advocate for public interests. The project framework includes three objectives: improving existing mechanisms for RTG institutions to receive input and feedback from citizens, improving the capacity of civil society to advocate for the public interest, and improving relations and constructive dialogue among citizens of different backgrounds. To achieve these objectives, Together has established partnerships with various stakeholders, including government agencies, CSOs, and academic institutions. One of the key accomplishments of the project is the initiation of a research project on hate speech and tolerance, conducted in collaboration with Maejo University, Khon Kaen University, Prince of Songkla University–Pattani Campus, and Patani Forum. The research aims to explore citizens' perspectives on hate speech and tolerance themes, using a mixed methods approach that includes a quantitative survey and focus group discussions. The research team has designed guidelines for the focus group discussions and has begun conducting focus group discussions and individual interviews in Pattani, Chiang Mai, and Khon Kaen Provinces. The project has also made progress in strengthening the capacity of Provincial Justice Offices and Damrongtham Centers. Together has selected The Impressio to provide training and technical assistance to these institutions, with the goal of improving their ability to address citizens' grievances and promote social inclusion. The training and technical assistance will focus on developing the skills and knowledge of justice officials, as well as improving the institutions' capacity to engage with citizens and respond to their needs. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the project's ability to achieve its objectives within the original timeframe. The pandemic has led to a rise in new COVID-19 cases and related deaths across Thailand, resulting in government-enforced restrictions on travel, meetings, and business activities. Despite these challenges, Together has proactively moved events online and has continued to make progress implementing its work plan. The project's ability to adapt to the complex operating environment has allowed it to continue making progress towards its objectives. The project's work plan for the next quarter (July to September 2021) includes the completion of the hate speech and tolerance research project, the continuation of training and technical assistance to Provincial Justice Offices and Damrongtham Centers, and the implementation of activities to promote diversity and tolerance and reduce drivers of conflict. The project's management team will continue to monitor and evaluate the project's progress, making adjustments as necessary to ensure that the project remains on track to achieve its objectives.