Representation over Resolve: Democratic Reputation and Civil War Dynamics Across Southeast Asia, struggles over identity, governance, and autonomy have shaped state-minority relations, sometimes leading to violent separatist conflicts. Democratization has introduced new dynamics, yet states continue to oscillate between repression and negotiation. My research examines how democratization influences government responses to separatist movements, focusing on Aceh (Indonesia), Bangsamoro (Philippines), and Pattani (Thailand). I argue that states and insurgent groups engage in “democratic signaling” to strengthen their legitimacy. Using in-depth case studies, this project explores how democratic reputation shapes conflict resolution, offering insights for policymakers and peacebuilders seeking durable solutions to separatist conflicts.