Socioeconomic endurance during the post-coup conflict : A case study of a community in mandalay region, central myanmar

Title: Socioeconomic endurance during the post-coup conflict : A case study of a community in mandalay region, central myanmar

Author: Miss Htet Yamone Win

Year: 2024

Keywords: Community Resilience, Socioeconomic hardship, post-coup adaptation, Myanmar

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Myanmar’s post-coup context has severely affected the local communities through the ongoing multiple crises in governance, livelihoods, and security matters. Myanmar military’s attempt to coup in 2021 triggered widespread resistance, including both non-violence and armed-resistance strategies, and led to sharp economic decline and public service disruptions. Those crises have been reshaping everyone’s daily life in Myanmar. While the much of existing literature focuses on those who have fled the country, this study centers on the experiences of individuals and communities who remain in the country, embracing the direct impact of political repression, economic instability and social fragmentation. Focusing on a township in Mandalay Region of Central Myanmar, a place where both local resistance and military operations are strong, this research examines how residents continue to navigate their daily life struggles under authoritarian conditions. For many individuals in the township, migration is not a viable option due to financial difficulties, political constraints, family obligations, and the risks associated with fleeing. Through a qualitative case study approach, guided by the Community Resilience Framework (CRF), this study explores how those who remain have developed the adaptive strategies across four dimensions: economic development, social capital, information and communication, and then community competence. With a particular focus on a localized analysis, the findings reveal that resilience in this context is marked by constrained endurance shaped by fear, inequality, and emotional fatigue. Therefore, this study contributes to broader discussions on community resilience in the conflict-driven settings and offers valuable insights into how these populations persist in the face of systemic violence and state repression

Reckoning movement parties : In-depth analysis of movement engagement and development perspective from the indonesian labour party

Title: Reckoning movement parties : In-depth analysis of movement engagement and development perspective from the indonesian labour party

Author: Mr.Margianta Surahman Juhanda

Year: 2024

Keywords: Movement parties, social movements, Indonesian Labour Party, democratic representation, intergenerational dynamics, Southeast Asian politics

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Pitch Pongsawat

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This study examines the Indonesian Labour Party (ILP) as a significant case study of movement parties in Southeast Asia's democratic landscape. The research investigates how the ILP, emerging from grassroots organizations and trade unions, navigates the complex relationship between social movements and formal political representation. Following recent changes in Indonesia's electoral threshold regulations, this study employs qualitative methodology, including in-depth interviews, to analyze the party's development trajectory and its engagement with social movements. Particular attention is paid to intergenerational dynamics within the party, examining how ideological perspectives and activism strategies differ between younger and older members. The research aims to contribute to the broader understanding of movement parties' role in democratic societies, specifically addressing the challenges of maintaining coherent representation while balancing diverse social movement demands. This study's findings will provide valuable insights into the evolution of movement parties in Southeast Asia and their impact on inclusive democratic development

Thailand’s Indigenous Rights Bills: Ideological Contestation through the Lens of Multiple Streams Framework and Powers of Exclusion

Title: Thailand’s Indigenous Rights Bills: Ideological Contestation through the Lens of Multiple Streams Framework and Powers of Exclusion

Author: Miss Tawanrat Marit

Year: 2023

Keywords:

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Carl Nigel Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Indigenous communities and ethnic groups have been experiencing marginalization due to the introduction of environmental laws and the prioritization of the national security agenda during the Cold War era. This has led to significant challenges such as land disputes, eviction, and loss of cultural identity. Accordingly, Indigenous communities have mobilized a social movement to advocate for inclusive policy changes. In 2022, Thailand is at a watershed moment as five versions of the Draft Indigenous Rights Bill are under consideration. Thus, this thesis examines the ideological contestations and policy networks involved in the drafting process of Thailand’s Draft Indigenous Rights Bill to analyze the agendasetting of the Bill. The study applies a hybrid conceptual framework that integrates the Multiple Streams Framework (MSF), Policy Network Analysis (PNA), the powers of exclusion, and Subaltern Counterpublics. It aims to dissect the roles of policy actors and ideological divergent in shaping the agenda-setting and potential policy outcomes of the Draft Bill. The data is collected from in-depth interviews with the key informants who involve in the process of drafting the Bills, as well as document review. This thesis contends that the ideological contestation between Indigenous rights, environmental conservation, and national security has significantly influenced the Bill's agenda-setting. In the problem stream, Indigenous rights issues have gained recognition from the government through indigenous movements and advocacy. The analysis from the policy stream finds that the process of presenting the draft Bills is highly dynamic due to the involvement of Indigenous networks, government agencies, and civil society. As they seek to have their solutions adopted, each policy network employs the strategies analyzed through the lens of powers of exclusion. Lastly, the poltics stream finds that the roles of Members of Parliament, bureaucrats, and legislators contribute to national moods and political conditions that enable and constrain the policy windows that allow the bill to be considered.

Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO)'s role in digitalization for vocational education development: A comparative analysis of Indonesia and Thailand

Title: Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO)'s role in digitalization for vocational education development: A comparative analysis of Indonesia and Thailand

Author: Miss Anastasia Sylvia

Year: 2022

Keywords: Regional Cooperation in Education, Vocational Education, Industry 4.0, Digitalisation in Education, Indonesia, Thailand, SEAMEO, GIZ, SEAMEO VOCTECH

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Vong-on Phuaphansawat

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis focuses on the role of the SEAMEO (Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization) role in vocational education development in Industry 4.0. Nowadays, there is a demand for the education sector to align with Industry 4.0, known as Education 4.0. In 2018, the SEAMEO, in collaboration with the GIZ, launched a Regional In-Service Training Modules project to support vocational education for Education 4.0. This study compares the impact of the Regional In-Service Training Modules project in two countries with a medium level of education performance in Southeast Asia: Indonesia and Thailand.This study employs a qualitative method with a case study. Data are collected from depth-interviews with 11 key informants, concept notes, original publications and literature from reliable sources. Data are analyzed using a thematic analysis method and Stuffle Beam's CIPP (Context, Input, Process, Product) evaluation model as a conceptual framework.Overall, this thesis concludes that SEAMEO matters for education development and supporting digitalisation in vocational education for Indonesia and Thailand.There are three significant findings from this study. Firstly, this study found that SEAMEO has provided access to conduct a project at the regional level and gather participants from 11 countries simultaneously. However, SEAMEO's level of intervention is limited due to their non-binding and non-intervention nature, like ASEAN. Secondly, this study found that digitalisation in vocational education does not mean going fully digital; Instead, vocational education shifts towards blended learning by combining online and face-to-face learning. The analysis concludes that practical skills in vocational education are hard to be taught online. Thirdly, the project's different outcomes at the national level are affected by national policy, participants' initiative, funding from GIZ and governments, and the center for practical training readiness in teaching about Industry 4.0.Based on the findings and analysis, this study recommends that SEAMEO collaborate with private sectors for their upcoming project to improve their quality. Secondly, vocational education institution in Indonesia and Thailand should strengthen their relationship with Industry to understand the criteria for skilled labor that Industry expects. Last, the Indonesian and Thai governments could learn from each other to improve education policiesThis thesis aims to study the role of SEAMEO (Southeast Asian Ministers of Education) in developing vocational education in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0. Currently, there is a need for the education sector to develop in line with Industry 4.0, or Education 4.0. In 2022, SEAMEO, together with the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ), launched the Regional In-Service Training Modules project to support vocational education in Industry 4.0. This research compares the outcomes of the Regional In-Service Training Modules project in two Southeast Asian countries with average educational outcomes: Indonesia and Thailand. This research employs qualitative methods with case studies. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with 11 key informants, recording key ideas, original publications, and literature reviews from reliable sources. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis and the Stuffle Beam's CIPP (Context, Input, Process, Product) evaluation model as the overall conceptual framework for this thesis. In summary, SEAMEO is crucial for the development of education and digital support in vocational education for Indonesia and Thailand. This study yielded three key findings: Firstly, the study found that SEAMEO provides access to implement regional projects and brings together participants from 11 countries simultaneously. However, SEAMEO's level of intervention is limited due to its lack of legally binding effect and its non-intervention compared to ASEAN. Secondly, the study found that the digital transformation in vocational education does not necessarily mean full digitalization, but rather a shift towards blended learning combining online and face-to-face classroom learning. The analysis concludes that teaching practical skills in vocational education online is challenging. Thirdly, the differing outcomes of projects at the national level are impacted by national policies, participant initiatives, funding from GIZ and the government, and centers for practical training readiness in industry-related instruction. 4.0 Based on this research and analysis, it is recommended that SEAMEO collaborate with the private sector on future projects to improve quality. Secondly, vocational education institutions in Indonesia and Thailand should strengthen their relationships with industry to understand the criteria for skilled labor that industry expects. Finally, the Indonesian and Thai governments can learn from each other to improve their educational policies more effectively.

Studying the Failure of Democratization in Myanmar from the Perspective of Electoral Politics

Title: Studying the Failure of Democratization in Myanmar from the Perspective of Electoral Politics

Author: Miss Su Myat Noe

Year: 2022

Keywords: Myanmar, elections, military coup, democratization.

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Balazs Szanto

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This paper will examine the relations between elections and democratic transition in Myanmar after 2010. From 2011 until the coup in February 2021, Myanmar had elections to elect a government after decades of military rule. The elections led to the first civilian government to form a government in 2016. In the past ten years of democratization, there have been no significant election fraud or manipulations. However, the electoral system in Myanmar could not be a stabilizing and legitimate institution for democratic rule. Rather, it was ineffective in embedding democratic values in society and in limiting the authority of the military and civilian political elites. In this paper, the instance of Myanmar is placed within the context of democratization literature and the ways in which elections affect the costs of oppression and toleration between the ruling party and the opposition. This paper will analyze that even when free and fair elections are held, the democratic process can still fail if the elections cannot increase the costs of oppression and decrease the costs of toleration. It will explain that, despite generally free and fair elections in Myanmar prior to the coup in February 2021, they were unable to hold the powerful institutions accountable to the people and foster a situation where elites upheld democratic norms and exercised self-control.

FPTP electoral system of Myanmar as a barrier for Ethnic Minority Inclusiveness in parliamentary decision-making

Title: FPTP electoral system of Myanmar as a barrier for Ethnic Minority Inclusiveness in parliamentary decision-making

Author: Miss Yamonh Pwint Thit

Year: 2022

Keywords: Inclusiveness, Ethnic Minority, FPTP, Representation

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Balazs Szanto

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: In Myanmar, the ethnic minority do not have equal access to public services to raise their issues and voices for it. They are not adequately represented in state institutions by the political system which does not grant the adequate opportunities to participate in decision-making at union level.Ethnic minorities believe that all groups should have equal access to public services and enjoy an efficient system of protection of human rights. Ethnic Diversity may result in tensions within the nation when one group is economically or socially or politically dominant or privileged. By being discriminated and marginalized through the political system, ethnic grievances have centered on the lack of inclusive decision making and it leads to internal tension and civil wars between ethnic groups and government. Hence, the lack of ethnic minority inclusiveness and a weak system of fair representation impact on the human security of ethnic minority groups. The electoral system of Myanmar, “First Past the Post” (FPTP) did not create a fair share of seats according to the number of votes each political party receives. As a result, these groups do not get their preferred representatives to raise their voices in parliament, while the winner who represents only some people becomes the representative of the whole constituency. Thus, Myanmar’s current electoral system is not creating inclusive representation of political parties in parliament.According to the principle of inclusivity, governance systems should ensure that all significant communities in a country are represented in state institutions and that they are granted adequate opportunities to meaningfully influence decision making. Paper will explain about the ethno-nationalism and the history of Myanmar, Electoral system and Constitution which diminish the inclusiveness and re-designing the considerable electoral system for better inclusiveness.

Thai civil partnership is the new marriage inequality : Queer critiques on the discourses in the civil partnership bill of state activism towards marriage ‘equality’

Title: Thai civil partnership is the new marriage inequality : Queer critiques on the discourses in the civil partnership bill of state activism towards marriage ‘equality’

Author: Miss Thanita Wongprasert

Year: 2018

Keywords: civil partnership, marriage equality, marriage, legal registration, discourse

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Soravis Jayanama

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: With an equal access to legal registration becoming the international mainstream development agenda and movement of 21st century, Thailand proposed a civil partnership bill developed by the Rights and Liberties Protection Department in 2018. Although the initiative seems promisingly progressive, the drafting, legal product and outcomes that the bill promises to bring lay vigorous ground of criticisms. This thesis is the first English-language academic work that uniquely integrates theoretical outlook and arguments of queer theory where Foucauldian discourse analysis is the key concept applied to critique the discourses codified in the bill. This thesis aims to analyze how Thai discourse of marriage affects state activism of marriage equality through the proposal of controversial civil partnership and argue how it is a new marriage inequality. This thesis presents key findings derived from secondary sources, content analysis of the bill, interviews with key actors, participation in relevant activities and events and insights from the author as an activist. The discourse of marriage in Thailand is more social and cultural than legal where witnessed ceremony without registration with state is regarded as recognition. Interacting with foreign influences, the civil partnership as a new registration system was proposed to make marriage more gender-inclusive and arguably equal, however the criticisms prove otherwise. Thai movement of marriage equality faces internal complexity among the civil society and state authorities. This paper concludes that beyond the limitation of rights, the civil partnership bill is a new marriage inequality. The oppressive institution of marriage whose discourse is monopolized by state is used as a tool to control and discipline Thai LGBTI couples. The discriminative civil partnership act normalizes and compromises the needs of the community with statist interest of state, enabling the reproduction and idealization of state-approved norms and expectations.

Assessing the faith-based organization in development : A case study of Hakha Baptist Church, Chin State, Myanmar

Title: Assessing the faith-based organization in development : A case study of Hakha Baptist Church, Chin State, Myanmar

Author: Thawng Tha Lian

Year: 2016

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: When we study the development of the Chin people and the Chin State, we find Church and development works are remarkably related and intertwined throughout the history of Chin people. Following the military coup in 1962, the government obstructed international cooperation within the country especially to ethnic States like Chin State. Since then, Churches become the main actor in deeper character to community development works especially to educational pattern. Churches involve in a wide range and leading development works within the intersection of gender equality, social service, infrastructure, education, culture, economics, and political development activities. The fundamental concepts of this research are rights-based approach to development, based on the 4As Frameworks: the 4As refers to Accessibility, Adaptability, Availability and Acceptability, then the barriers and the opportunities in different models of church-based programs in Hakha. The purpose of this research is to identify the roles of church institutions in promoting rights-based approach to development accordingly with the 4A frameworks. This research finds that the Churches are the only institutions that provide and promote people participation in their right to development, capacity building, and peace building. However, the research explicitly finds that the church’s approach to development works in particular programs is a bit more based on charity purpose only. Merely charity approach is not enough according to the human right-based approach to development theory. For example, after Holy Communion, church collects money for the poor is only based on charity. Instead, the church and its members want to donate to help the life of the poor who are in need and improve their lives to maximum standard. It happens when the poor are being treated as a receiver instead of empowering them to be in self-realizable. On the other hands, the churches tend and are the main actors to promote local people’s right to development both in special projects and general programs, not only for their members but also general public. Therefore, this research concludes that the development of the Chins is deeply rooted to Churches in Chin State. It reflects that development works without religion orientate might hardly successful in Chin State because the philosophy and context of the people in Chin state is highly influenced by religion

The roles of civil society organization in womens empowerment: A case study of the Kachin internal displaced women in Mai Ja Yang Town, Kachin State, Myanmar

Title: The roles of civil society organization in womens empowerment: A case study of the Kachin internal displaced women in Mai Ja Yang Town, Kachin State, Myanmar

Author: Lahpai Nang Sam Awng

Year: 2014

Keywords: INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS / WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT / HUMAN SECURITY / CIVIL, SOCIETY ORGANIZATION / KACHIN

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The ethnic conflict between the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and Myanmar civilian government from 2011 June has resulted in more than 100,000 internally displaced people (IDPs), who are taking shelter along the China-Myanmar border (UNHCR, 2014 ). Moreover, the government is not providing humanitarian assistance and has even blocked international organizations from reaching the IDPs. Local civil society organizations (CSOs) are trying to support the IDPs to maintain their livelihoods by giving them necessary training and assistance. Women’s experiences in conflict situations are often unique to their gender. Women face specific vulnerabilities such as the threats of sexual abuse and rape, physical and mental abuse, exploitation and inequality in decision-making. The purpose of this research is to identify the roles of civil society organizations (CSOs) working on empowerment for IDP women during the conflict. The empowerment of IDP women is assessed using four main concepts: access, conscientization, mobilization and control, as defined by UNHCR guidelines (UNHCR, 2001) and link with the human security concept which include of Economic, Health, Political, Personal and community security. In each dimension of security the thesis will look the empowerment indicator to analysis. The area of research is focusing on the women in Pa Kahtawng IDP camp in Mai Ja Yang, an area of Kachin state, Myanmar, which is not under government control. The research uses qualitative methods, including interviews with key informants, focus group discussions and case studies. This research shows that the CSOs have been continuously giving trainings and providing capacity building for the development of women. But in most cases, the women have been reach to the different level of empowerment by the civil society organizations (CSO), mostly through training on gender, health, income generation, and women's rights. However, Kachin women face numerous obstacles to their empowerment, as they still encounter power relations in the family and community because of the continuing domination of men due to culture and tradition

Indigenous development and empowerment in Mimika Regency, Papua Province of Indonesia

Title: Indigenous development and empowerment in Mimika Regency, Papua Province of Indonesia

Author: Ellen Sasha

Year: 2014

Keywords: INDIGENOUS DEVELOPMENT / EMPOWERMENT / PAPUA

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Prakorn Siriprakob

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The Amungme and Kamoro are indigenous groups that are among the most underprivileged and vulnerable groups in Mimika Regency, Indonesia. Modernization came to the area since the 1960s through mining activity and has encouraged modern infrastructure that disrupted Amungme and Kamoro indigenous lifestyles. These state-led developments have further underpinned the marginalization of these groups by the transmigration program that brought a high influx of migrants who are more supported and benefit from economic activities in the regency. To bridging the gap of economic advancement to indigenous people, non-government organizations have emerged with the purpose of developing and building the capacity of indigenous people to assist them to engage in and adapt to economic and social changes. However, these approaches of empowerment are challenging for Amungme and Kamoro to fully benefit with its prominent aims. This research focuses on the development of indigenous people in Mimika to find the link between current empowerment programs with the indigenousness of Amungme and Kamoro as beneficiaries. The research objectives are to describe the current condition of Amungme and Kamoro in relation to recent development in Mimika; to analyze the role of civil society in improving development projects through in-depth analysis on the development process of LPMAK, Lemasa, Lemasko and government; and to analyze the idea of indigenousness within current empowerment programs conducted by civil society while identifying key areas to improve current empowerment programs. This research uses qualitative methods to collect data from key informants with in-depth interviews from relevant stakeholders involved and through document analysis. Various perspectives from the customary institutions, non-government organizations and indigenous people of Amungme and Kamoro are analyzed and evaluated. The research findings reveal that the premise of current empowerment programs in health, economy and education does not fit with the Amungme and Kamoro's empowerment needs. Although current empowerment programs have developed the capacity of Amungme and Kamoro by bridging the gap between their condition and modernization, and the engagement of customary institution has enhanced its strategy to better empower indigenous people, the different focus of empowerment has limited the Amungme and Kamoro to be fully empowered by the program. The Amungme and Kamoro people's ecological context, livelihood and gender have played a key role in criticizing those programs against their indigenousness

Civil society's response to sexual orientation discrimination : A case study of Rainbow Community Kampuchea in Phnom Penh

Title: Civil society's response to sexual orientation discrimination : A case study of Rainbow Community Kampuchea in Phnom Penh

Author: Sothy Lek

Year: 2014

Keywords: CIVIL SOCIETY / HUMAN RIGHTS / SEXUAL ORIENTATION /, DISCRIMINATION / OPPRESSION / HETEROSEXISM / HETEROSEXUAL / HOMOSEXUAL /, LGBT

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Soravis Jayanama, advisor, Michael George Hayes, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The emergence of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community has accelerated in recent years, and with it sexuality discrimination has also emerged as one of the most serious issues in Cambodia. While a number of civil society organizations (CSOs) have increased in recent years, only some have been dealing with human rights of LGBT. This paper explores the response of CSO's to sexual orientation discrimination and to examine the conditions and limitations that have effected on those CSO's. The research applies a qualitative study. Rainbow Community Organization (RoCK) has been selected as the targeted organization for the case study. RoCK is very unique because it is the only CSO working exclusively and directly for the non-discrimination of Cambodian LGBTs. To gather information and data for analysis, semi-structured interviews with keys informants from RoCK, other CSOs and LGBT respondents have been conducted in the fieldwork in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The research found that having understood various kind of oppression and discrimination, RoCK has tried to work either at the grassroots or national level to manage and mitigate issues. Its main actions are LGBT organization, awareness-raising, researching and publication, and casework. It builds networking with diverse LGBTs who are in different locales and to create special events such as the LGBT pride and other seminars to make the public understand about the issues and rights of LGBTs. RoCK is also involved in research and publication, and deals with the casework of LGBTs. As a consequence, RoCK achieves its goals in working with discrimination at the individual and family levels, and it has LGBT networking systems in place in almost all provinces of Cambodia. Unfortunately, the ability of RoCK to work at the community and the State level is still limited due to some significant limitations, such as socio-cultural factors, weak implementation of laws and policies, and political factors

Christian Values and Beliefs in Development Practice: A Case Study of Faith-Based Development in Karen Hilltribe Communities, Mae Sariang, Thailand

Title: Christian Values and Beliefs in Development Practice: A Case Study of Faith-Based Development in Karen Hilltribe Communities, Mae Sariang, Thailand

Author: Kai Ling Yee

Year: 2014

Keywords: FAITH-BASED DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATION (FBDO) / RELIGION, VALUES AND BELIEFS / TRANSFORMATIONAL DEVELOPMENT / WORLD VISION, THAILAND / KAREN HILLTRIBE

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Chantana Wungaeo

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis contends that faith-based development organisations are not well-studied; it examines the faith-based aspects of World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) and its work in Mae Sariang as a case study. This thesis first analyses how Christian values, beliefs and identity of World Vision International shape WVFT's understanding of its mission and development programmes. Second, it examines the extent to which the interaction of Christian values, beliefs and ethics of WVFT with that of religions of Karen hilltribe communities enhances or impedes development projects in the areas of participation and sustainability. This study reveals that Christian identity, values and beliefs through 'Transformational Development' & 'Christian Witness' and organisational culture are demonstrated in development practice WVFT, but to a limited extent due to reasons of sensitivity in the Thai context; and adaptations and interpretations of development by field workers. Partnerships with faith-based groups, which can bring about development beyond material well-being, are also minimal. It is also found in this research that the different religious groups of the Karen hilltribe communities under study have close interactions due to their shared cultural identity and history. In addition, the villagers have their existing survival strategy by relying on the spiritual belief and practices through which community participation can occur. Thus far, the interaction of WVFT's Christian values and beliefs with Karen hilltribe communities has been minimal, and has little contribution to community participation and sustainability. However, as the Mae Sariang Area Development Programme undergoes redesigning to increase the capacity of field staff to work with faith-based groups, the interaction of both Christian and local religious values and beliefs may increase to bring about community participation and sustainability for the fulfilment of development goals

Civil society organizations' response to religious discrimination in Myanmar : a case study of the 88 generation students group and Paungku consortium

Title: Civil society organizations' response to religious discrimination in Myanmar : a case study of the 88 generation students group and Paungku consortium

Author: Khin San Wai

Year: 2013

Keywords: CIVIL SOCIETY / DEMOC / DEMOCRATIC VALUES / HUMAN RIGHTS /, DISCRIMINATION / VALUE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION / RELIGIOUS CONFLICTS / ANTI-MUSLIMS, VIOLENCE

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon, advisor, Michael George Hayes, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: After 2010 general election in Myanmar, newly civilian government has ruled the country and performed a series of democratic reforms such as political, economic and administrative reforms. Simultaneously, tensions between majority and minority population and religion have been increasing. Resulting from religious discrimination problems, anti-Muslims violence spread across the country since 2012. These violent conflicts had produced challenge to the country’s stability and democratization process. They become threats to political stability of the country and obstacles towards Myanmar’s transition to democracy. This research looks at the responses of civil society organizations in coping with religious discrimination and violence conflicts. It applies a qualitative study including a case study’s analysis of civil society organizations, namely the 88 Generation Students Group and the Paungku Consortium, in Yangon, Myanmar. In order to collect data and information for analysis, in-depth interviews and semi-structured interviews with key persons in selected organizations as well as relevant stakeholders are conducted during field study. Diverse perceptions were gathered from the fields of media, academic, non-governmental organizations to examine how civil society organizations response to religious violence and foster non-discrimination values. The study found that anti-Muslims sentiments make more tensions between people from both societies of Buddhists and Muslims and lead to religious violence. As a result of sectarian violence, numbers of households of Buddhists and Muslims were demolished and a thousand of lives were executed. Civil society organizations during the time contributed necessary assistances to affected people but could not fully address the root causes of conflict mainly based on religious discrimination. Moreover, it is found out that civil society organizations are not entirely able to cope with discrimination problems. This study, therefore, propose that issues of discrimination against minority religion and race are needed to take more consideration and civil society organizations should make more effort to lessen discriminatory practices in society.

Viethamese brides coping strategies with stigmatization in Taiwan

Title: Viethamese brides coping strategies with stigmatization in Taiwan

Author: Chi Han Chou

Year: 2012

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Soravis Jayanama

The full thesis available here.

Abstract:

A Rising tide lifts all boats? : the impacts of tourism on livelihoods and human rights in Ngwe Saung, Myanmar

Title: A Rising tide lifts all boats? : the impacts of tourism on livelihoods and human rights in Ngwe Saung, Myanmar

Author: Ashley Elizabeth Pritchard

Year: 2012

Keywords: TOURISM DEVELOPMENT/HUMAN, RIGHTS/LIVELIHOODS/POVERTY REDUCTION

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Niti Pawakapan, advisor, Michael George Hayes, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Myanmar, a country that only officially opened its borders to tourists in 1996, has a new level of visibility amongst international travelers with the recent political transformations and lifting of both U.S. and E.U. sanctions. The government of Myanmar has officially adopted tourism development as one of its economic priorities, recognizing it as one of its biggest potential growth areas in the near term future. Myanmar represents an important case study in tourism development and human rights because of its historic isolation to foreigners, its poor track record on human rights, and the relatively new open door policy to tourism. This paper examines the impact of the tourism industry on the local people of Ngwe Saung, a coastal town in western Myanmar. This paper challenges the theory of modernization which attests that tourism developments produced by the rich will trickle-down to benefit the poor in aspects of improving livelihoods and more importantly, ensuring social and economic human rights. The research used a qualitative design, including 100 personal interviews, expert interviews from those in the tourism industry, and a small survey of villagers from Ngwe Saung. A key priority of this research is to determine how tourism impacts the daily life of a local villager and if livelihood and rights have been advanced by the development of tourism. Key findings from this study indicate that after the initial shock of the land seizure individuals from the Ngwe Saung community of all ages, occupations and ethnic groups experienced a positive increase in sustainable livelihoods through increased job opportunity and additional income, but to varying degrees. Livelihood improvements directly impacted human rights to education, health, hygiene, electricity, transportation, freedom of information and religious opportunity. Results show that tourism development reduced poverty significantly, elevating participants from extreme poverty to a level above subsistence which was otherwise unattainable without the jobs and income that tourism generated. These benefits are mainly due to inputs from the tourism industry itself, and not government assistance.

The UDD movement and political reform discourse : the desecuritization of Thai politics within The Public Relation Department English website

Title: The UDD movement and political reform discourse : the desecuritization of Thai politics within The Public Relation Department English website

Author: Alan Wihlborg Andersen

Year: 2011

Keywords: SECURITIZATION / DESECURITIZATION / UDD / HUMAN, RIGHTS / SPEECH ACT / THAINESS / UNITY

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Soravis Jayanama

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Arguably, the Copenhagen School and the theory of Securitization has mainly been applied or linked to western driven security issues within International Relations such as immigration, drug trafficking, global warming, global war on terror amongst others. As such, much criticism has been directed towards its Eurocentric upbringings. However, despite these comments, securitization has also started to gain its presence outside of western Europe. This paper attempts to gauge as to how might the theory be applied in the context of Thailand. Political movements (Yellow, Red, Multicolour) in Thailand have remained a fixture in public debate and on the political agenda since 2005. The paper investigates if there has been a Desecuritization of the Red Shirt movement within official media between the end of the violent demonstrations of May 2010 to the end of September 2011. As such, it focuses on how securitization/desecuritization has affected human rights, specifically vis-a-vis Thailand’s adherence to the ICCPR during the post protest period. Given the specific time period of the study, the paper aims to draw comparisons as well as contrasts between the Ahbisit and Yingluck administration. As such, the case remains both a test case to the Securitization theory’s underlining assumptions on political and security dynamics and logics as well as to provide a different angle to Thailand’s ongoing political conflict and its development.

Peacebuilding in Southern Thailand : The developmental contribution of the Asia Foundation's deliberative dialogue program

Title: Peacebuilding in Southern Thailand : The developmental contribution of the Asia Foundation's deliberative dialogue program

Author: Marika Stella Dora Shiga

Year: 2011

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Pitch Pongsawat

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Currently, many international aid agencies seek to contritbute to development and peacebuilding in Southern Thailand, yet recent investigation suggests that there are still many shortcomings in the realization of meaningful contributions to peacebuilding. Although development agencies and organizations through their work have the potential to contribute to and support peace work, the reality is that developmental contributions to situations of conflict are not always nor are necessarily positive ones. In considering the developmental contributions to peacebuilding in Southern Thailand, a range of development actors and outcomes are noted, highlighting the political nature of development. This research then uses the selected case study of The Asia Foundation's Deliberative Dialogue Program to consider its contribution to peacebuilding in Southern Thailand. With many agencies, actors, and organizations seeking avenues to contribute to the peacebuilding process mostly through Track III (civil society based) methods, there can be benefit found in an examination of current strategies and implementation of peace work through development actors in Southern Thailand. In determining how development efforts can support peacebuilding in Southern Thailand in an integrated way, and specifically how TAF's Deliberative Dialogue Program can contribute to development and peacebuilding in Southern Thailand, this research hopes to present an example of options and avenues for those seeking promote peace in Southern Thailand.

Participation and empowerment of development in Kayah state : a case study of international and local non-governmental organizations

Title: Participation and empowerment of development in Kayah state : a case study of international and local non-governmental organizations

Author: Sophia

Year: 2011

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon, advisor, Hayes, Michael George, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) and Local Non-Governmental-Organizations (LNGOs) became crucial in shaping the Local Development in Kayah State, the smallest state in Myanmar. An important activity of NGO work is to apply participation and empowerment tools in their development projects. This research assessed how both Integrated Community Development Project (ICDP)/INGO and Catholic Karuna Loikaw/LNGO took account of using participation and empowerment tools in the development processes. Specifically, the case study was done in the two villages of Kayah State which is situated in the Eastern part of Myanmar. The research analyzed whether participation and empowerment applied by the two NGOs can contribute to the local development by examining the income generation activities of a Self-Reliance-Group of ICDP and a Micro-Credit-Union Group of CKL in these two projects. This research mainly relied on primary data collection method by in-depth interview, survey, field observation and personal interview collected during an extended field trip in mid 2011, and also used reports and data produced by the two NGOs. The research concludes that the Self-Reliance-Group and the Micro-Credit-Union Group are based on group approaches ensuring local development through participation of all members. They do create a community based structure that builds mutual support and trust among members and encourages vulnerable, poor and marginalized people. Women members are becoming not only more productive but also getting empowered. As a result of forming these groups, women are now integrated into social-economic activities, contributing to both family and community. The borrowers’ capacities in doing household business are improved by borrowing and repayment practice, and the women can go to local rights-based development through empowerment in economic and social matters.

Trust Building Through Army Development Initiatives in Conflict Situations: The Case of Yalannanbaru in the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand

Title: Trust Building Through Army Development Initiatives in Conflict Situations: The Case of Yalannanbaru in the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand

Author: Martine Van Es

Year: 2009

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Nishikawa, Yukiko, advisor, Chantana Wungaeo, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis studies the Jalanan Baru project, implemented by military agencies in the southern border provinces of Thailand, to examine whether the project contributed to building trust among the local population. The study utilizes the theory of trust and distrust in conflict situations and development initiatives by Thai military personnel, focusing specifically on the Jalanan Baru project. The Jalanan Baru project is a youth anti-drug training camp in the three southern border provinces. Data analysis reveals that the project generated both trust and distrust, indicating the multifaceted nature of relationships within conflict situations and suggesting that the project may have created distrust alongside trust. Furthermore, applying the theory of trust and distrust scales, the conflict between expectations and outcomes of military-initiated development projects influenced the attitudes of participants. The study found that the project's implementation involved multiple stages, each contributing to varying levels of trust and distrust between participants and the military personnel responsible. Building trust between groups using such projects has limitations. Distrust within this society remains at a level that restricts the trust-building process. This study concludes that building trust through development projects initiated by military agencies, such as the Jalanan Baru project, requires a comprehensive analysis of relationships and trust-building, understanding the dynamics of the conflict broadly and holistically. Without addressing the root causes of the conflict, military development projects are unlikely to improve the situation in the three southern border provinces. This study focuses on the Yalannanbaru program run by the Thai army in the southern border provinces of Thailand in order to examine whether the project contributes to obtain trust from the local people. In so doing, this thesis introduces theories on trust and distrust to the conflict situation and development initiatives run by the Thai army. The study utilizes an in-depth single-case study on the Yalannanbaru program; a drugs re-education camp for youth in the southern border provinces. In the course of analysis, the notion of separate dimensions of trust and distrust is applied, acknowledging the multifaceted character of many relations and the possible coexistence of trust and distrust in a relationship. In addition, the theory of calibration of trust and distrust is introduced in order to examine the discrepancy between expectations and outcomes of army development initiatives can influence participants' attitudes. The study revealed that through various processes, the program has been able to change levels of interpersonal trust and distrust between the participating youth and the army officers directly involved. However, the potential to address intergroup trust and distrust through the program is currently very limited; the existing distrust in society is a strong restraint on any trust building process. From the study, the thesis concludes that trust building through development initiatives by the Thai army like Yalannanbaru requires more careful analysis on relation and trust building with thorough understanding of wider conflict dynamics. Without focusing on resolution by tackling the root causes of the conflict, army development programs have little potential to contribute to improving the situation in the southern border provinces.

The networking of transnational social movements : The case of compulsory licensing in Thailand

Title: The networking of transnational social movements : The case of compulsory licensing in Thailand

Author: Kal Elle

Year: 2008

Keywords: Networking Transitional social movement/Compulsory License/Thailand

Theme: Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Vira Somboon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: CL offers a viable means to address the access to essential medicine problem. Transnational social movements, in turn, legitimize this method. The CL campaign and the networking of transnational social movement worked in conjunction to present an alternative to pharmaceutical market order. This research evaluates the success of the transnational social movement after Thailand’s issuance of Compulsory Licensing (CL) in Nov 2006. By assessing the characteristics, reasons, and nature of the movement, this work aims to determine its sustainability for future CL movements. Research findings illustrate that the networking of transnational social movements proved necessary, if not crucial, to the success of the Thai CL campaign. This research assesses the success of the transnational social movement and its theoretical implications. Four major features describe the transnational social movements: 1) Involvement of heterogeneous actors; 2) strategic division of labor; 3) responsiveness to counter-CL pressure; and 4) continuation of the CL campaign. These features determined the achievements of the social movements. This study applied the “Triangle that Moves Mountain” framework to illustrate the characteristics of the transnational social movements. First, different networks formulated a comprehensive knowledge base to provide informational support against pharmaceutical companies and their lobbyists. Secondly, different networks provided the impetus for social mobilization in support of the Thai CL issue. Lastly, this issue required global engagement from individuals, national government, governments of other nations, and international organizations. The transnational social movement exhibited four vital characteristics of social movements. First, it targeted pharmaceutical companies’ priorities, consisted of loosely defined informal networks, and fostered collective identities. In addition, the social movement linked the Thai CL campaign to the broader neo-liberal master frame. The CL campaign was characteristic of a social movement in the sense that it made distinct challenges to US hegemony and pharmaceutical dominance under the guise of the free market. Finally, this research looks at the sustainability of the transnational social movement. Given the successful networking of globalized actors, transnational social movement can continue to play a vital role in future compulsory licensing movements, if they are able to replicate the global legitimacy achieved in the Thai CL case.