A historical overview of the situation in southern Thailand and southern Philippines is presented, followed by a discussion on peace building efforts in conflict regions. Panelists give special attention to welfare and security issues in these areas. The panel is moderated by Kikue Hamayotsu (Ph.D., Department of Political Science, Northern Illinois University). Panelists include: Kriya Lanputeh (Yala Islamic University), Abdulghoni Suetair (Prince of Songkla University), Pattama Hamingma (Asian Muslim Action Network and Asian Resource Foundation), Shahana Abdulwahid (Institute for Islamic Studies, University of the Philippines), Minalang Barapantao (Mindanao State University). From the World Beyond the Headlines Series.