Participation of people with disabilities in the labour market : the role of vocational training

Title: Participation of people with disabilities in the labour market : the role of vocational training

Author: Salai Vanni Bawi

Year: 2013

Keywords: PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES / LABOR MARKET / VOCATIONAL TRAINING /, EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Theme: Human Rights

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon, advisor, Huguet, Jerrold W., co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This study aims to identify the notion of obtaining job opportunities for people with disabilities (PWDs) in Myanmar. The issue of getting a job is incredibly significant to improving living standards, getting a better income and increasing self-esteem in society. Regarding international human rights treaties, PWDs have equal rights to access public transportation accessibility and live independently in society. However, PWDs are still struggling twice as much in society to access vocational trainings, job opportunities and improve income in Myanmar. Thus, many organizations also aim to create job opportunities and income credibility by supporting various vocational trainings. For instance, understanding the challenges of vocational designs, the hardships of participating in the employment market, and limitations in accessing job opportunities are extremely important issue to analyze for creating job opportunity for PWDs. This study analyzes the teaching design of vocational trainings, the application of trainees in the community, the aspect of formal and informal employers and the planning of vocational institutions which attempts to find employment opportunities for PWDs. In particular, this study interviews: 1) vocational institutions which train persons with physical and visual impairments, 2) formal employers, 3) informal businesses of PWDs, 4) different key informants from DPOs, private vocational schools and related government sectors in Yangon, Myanmar.Key findings in this study found that vocational training explicitly focused on rehabilitation and could only provide basic vocational skills, which are not adequate in order to participate in the labor market directly. Consequently, full participation in education is a crucial starting point to access vocational training and enter the labor market. When considering employment opportunities for PWDs, market-oriented vocational training and state intervention could bring more job opportunities for PWDs in practice.

English language as development : a case study of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR

Title: English language as development : a case study of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR

Author: Elizabeth May

Year: 2013

Keywords: GLOBALIZATION/ LANGUAGE DIFFUSION/ ENGLISH/ EDUCATION/ DEVELOPMENT/ LANGUAGE ACQUISITION

Theme: Education

Advisor(s): Pitch Pongsawat

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis identifies the role of globalization through a transformationalist perspective on a highly commodified tourist destination Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. This paper also addresses whether or not the spread of the English language was due to language policy from the government, implemented through public education in foreign language classes, or through non-formal means of interaction with volunteers, tourists, travelers, private projects and NGO's dedicated to helping the local populace acquire language skills to improve their lives as well as their livelihoods. Globalization has local development impacts leading to transformative changes in a community. There are advantages and disadvantages for the locals who will be impacted by this transformative change, especially with regards to language. Language acquisition will be analyzed to determine how the locals gained competency in the "global language." The findings show that formal and non-formal teaching methods were implemented in Luang Prabang, with the conclusion that non-formal methods via interactions with foreigners and volunteers impact the locals residing in Luang Prabang in an inclusive and positive manner and provides a rich environment for language and cultural exchange. This bottom up method of non-formal educational exchange empowers the locals who do not have access to private tutoring classes or consistent and quality foreign language classes in public schools. It has been demonstrated through the research conducted that English improves lives and livelihoods, which forms part of the social and economic pillars of development, therefore language should be incorporated as a component of discourse within development.

Vulnerability and Migration of Small-Scale Fishing and Fishing-Farming Households around Tonle Sap Lake

Title: Vulnerability and Migration of Small-Scale Fishing and Fishing-Farming Households around Tonle Sap Lake

Author: Seangly Kheang

Year: 2013

Keywords: VULNERABILITY / MIGRATION / SMALL SCALE FISHING HOUSEHOLDS / SMALL SCALE, FISHING-FARMING HOUSEHOLDS / TONLE SAP LAKE

Theme: Migration

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: More than one million people live near the Tonle Sap Lake and many of them, in particular, small scale fishing households, are dependent on fish resources to secure their livelihood. However, in recent years, the declining fish stocks in the lake have been reported to have made it difficult for fishing dependent households to meet basic needs and survive shocks, causing them to become more vulnerable. One of livelihood strategies to minimize this vulnerable situation is migration. This thesis investigates the extent to which migration, as a livelihood strategy, has been adopted by both small scale fishing and fishing-farming households to reduce vulnerability around the Tonle Sap Lake. This study applied the framework of “Drivers of Migration”, by Black et al (2011) and was conducted using a qualitative case study approach in Prek Trob village of Battambang province in Cambodia. The study found that, when the fish stock declined and when there were harvesting problems, there was a need for the study community to respond to the problem by diversifying sources of income. Migration, as livelihood strategy, was one response adopted by this community as it had the potential to minimize the livelihood vulnerability. The movement of people was driven by multiple triggers and interacting drivers of migration including environmental, social, economic, demographical, and political in both areas of origin and destination. Remittances that were sent home were reported to be useful to pay back debts, purchase food and pay for the cost of farming production, especially for fishing-farming households. The research revealed that Thailand has increasingly become a work destination of choice for both fishers and fisher-farmers and that there was a pattern of short-term, seasonal and long-term migration Those that to migrated for work preferred to do so illegally because they were able to save time and money especially when the cost of passports and traveling was high.This case study has revealed two main policy implications: livelihood vulnerability and migration. It was found that the level of vulnerability had a close link with resource degradation and limited access to fish and land resources. Migration was another critical area for policy makers. The illegal preference for migration to Thailand for employment implied a weakness of migration and employment policies as well as slow implementation of policies by government ministries and departments. It, therefore, required the revisiting of relevant policies to reduce vulnerability of households through improving equitable access to potentially fishery resources, farming and land and minimizing the risks of migration.

Perceptions of poverty and inequality among the privileged Thai youth : an evaluation of social consciousness in Thailand

Title: Perceptions of poverty and inequality among the privileged Thai youth : an evaluation of social consciousness in Thailand

Author: Valerie Paradiso

Year: 2013

Keywords: SOCIAL CONSCIOUSNESS/PRIVILEGED, YOUTH/PERCEPTIONS/POVERTY/INEQUALITY

Theme: Social Welfare

Advisor(s): Pitch Pongsawat

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: De Swaan’s historical analysis of the welfare state points towards the role of social consciousness, a set of perceptions held by the elite, in triggering collective action for poverty reduction in Europe and the United States. The amalgam of perceptions amounting to a social consciousness included the beliefs in social interdependency, social responsibility and in the feasibility of poverty reduction efforts. This study aimed to gain insights on the perceptions of poverty, inequality, and pro-poor policies among the privileged youth in Thailand by focusing on students enrolled at Chulalongkorn University, Mahidol University International College and Thammasat University in courses related to the social sciences. Using De Swaan’s analytical framework of social consciousness, this research shows that the physical and social segregation between social classes in Thailand lessens the sense of social interdependency between the privileged youth and the poor. Moreover, the negative perceptions of the poor, the lack of faith towards the state and the lack of trust in fellow citizens to share the cost of poverty alleviation impact social responsibility and the will for collective action towards poverty reduction among the privileged youth. Nevertheless, the privileged youth viewed poverty reduction as feasible while investing in education was by far the most popular initiative to reduce poverty in Thailand. Overall, it can be argued that privileged youth showed signs of an incomplete social consciousness.

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.

The reproduction of human (in)security : a case study of post-flood Ayutthaya

Title: The reproduction of human (in)security : a case study of post-flood Ayutthaya

Author: Tananchon Suttichuay

Year: 2013

Keywords: REPRODUCTION/ HUMAN (IN)SECURITY/ POST-FLOOD/ AYUTTHAYA

Theme: Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The study focuses on human security in the post-flood environment of disaster-affected community. The research aims to assess the reproduction of human (in)security constituted by relief operation as well as institutional learning of community’s experience. It explains the reproduction process of human security concentrated on community of affected areas. In addition, it further proposes potential way of reconstructing and restructuring human security in the post-disaster environment future preparation. This research is the analytical-qualitative study being employed the case study of the 2011 flood in Lae Paniad Luang Elephant Camp and Ayutthaya Hospital community as the unit of analysis. Ayutthaya, housing five industrial zones and contributing to a large amount of the country’s GDP as well as its historical significance, was severely affected by the incident in 2011. The methodology utilized in the study includes in-depth and semi-structured interview, potentially aimed to extract qualitative data analysis. The study found that flood in 2011 resulted in immediate-to-short term food, economic, health, environmental, personal, community and political insecurity. The relief operation by different sectors contributed to addressing multi-dimensional human insecurity to some degree. The findings suggest that even though human security has been reproduced to some extent two years after the disaster, there have been numbers of issues different stakeholders need to learn and take in account in coping with natural disaster.

Governance and changes of economic and food security in Myanmar : Case study of Letpadaung Copper Mine

Title: Governance and changes of economic and food security in Myanmar : Case study of Letpadaung Copper Mine

Author: April Kyu Kyu

Year: 2013

Keywords: ECONOMIC SECURITY / FOOD SECURITY / GOVERNANCE /, LETPADAUNG COPPER MINE

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis evaluates the governance of Letpadaung copper mine project from the beginning of the project. Since 2010, the Union of Myanmar Economic Holding Ltd_(MEHL) has implemented the Letpadaung copper mine project in Sagaing State as a joint venture with Chinese companies. The thesis investigates the relationship between poor governance at the project and environment and social damages associated with the project that has impacted the economic and food security of thousands of local villagers who live around Letpadaung Mountain. These villagers alongside students and monks have protested against the copper mine and attracted the support of Media, NGOs and political parties. Letpadaung copper mine has emerged as one of the most important issues in Myanmar.This research focuses on the decision making or Letpadaung project and the participation, transparency and accountability of the different actors that shape the governance of the project area. This study also evaluates changes in human security of local people due to the implementation of the project, especially changes of economic and food security. The research used qualitative methods including semi-structure interviews, key-informants interview, group discussion and observationThe thesis conclude that implementation of Letpadaung copper mine project has affected the economic and food security of local communities. The implementations of the governance mechanisms (Participation, Transparency and Accountability) are poor, which has thereby failed to recognize and redress negative impacts on economic and food security of local communities.

Social enterprise and promotion of safe migration among returned migrants: case studies of a credit union In Bone District of South Sulawesi Province Indonesia

Title: Social enterprise and promotion of safe migration among returned migrants: case studies of a credit union In Bone District of South Sulawesi Province Indonesia

Author: Fatimana Agustinanto

Year: 2013

Keywords: SOCIAL ENTRPRISE/CREDIT UNION/SAFE MIGRATION/RETURNED MIGRANTS/INDONESIA

Theme: Migration

Advisor(s): Supang Chantavanich, advisor, Ratchada Jayagupta, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Indonesia is one of the biggest sending countries of migrant workers in Southeast Asia. Unfortunately, a significant number of these migrant workers have migrated in a way that is unsafe causing them to be victims of trafficking in the countries of destination. This research will attempt to: (1) examine the involvement of CSOs in promoting safe migration; (2) investigate the role of the Credit Union Pammase (CUP) in the promotion of safe migration through the implementation of economic security strategies; and (3) examine whether these strategies of CUP has promoted safe migration and prevented potential trafficked persons from being trafficked. This research draws on fieldwork conducted in one of the sending areas of Indonesia, the Bone District, South Sulawesi Province during the period of June - July 2013. This research argues that economic security became the main factor that influenced the future migration decisions of returned migrants. The paper concludes that CUP in the Bone District has not yet succeeded in strengthening economic security for its members. Instead, its contribution has only been to provide the members with a limited understanding of how to migrate to other countries in a safe and secure way. As a result, the members are still vulnerable to future trafficking. In addition, the problems of self-financing and management challenges are also two factors amongst others that prevent CUP to achieve its mission.

Clinical legal education in Thai law schools and access to justice

Title: Clinical legal education in Thai law schools and access to justice

Author: Lauren Donnison

Year: 2013

Keywords: CLINICAL LEGAL EDUCATION/ ACCESS TO JUSTICE/ THAILAND

Theme: Education

Advisor(s): Pondson Liengboonlertchai

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Legal pro bono activities are vital in any society to ensure that the rule of law is upheld and equal access to justice is achieved, however in Thailand, like in many countries, there are a lack of professionals who actually participate in such work. Clinical legal education programs aim to provide students with a more holistic education that enhances their lawyering skills and incorporates a pro bono and social justice ethos into legal education through interactive, student centered teaching methods. It is hoped that after graduation law students will continue to do pro bono work throughout their careers. CLE also has a secondary aim of increasing the access to justice within a society. The purpose of this study to evaluate the positive impacts CLE has upon law graduates and its potential to increase access to justice in Thailand. The primary findings of the study are: (i) CLE programs have a positive impact upon graduates skills, social awareness and sense of social responsibility, increasing graduates overall capacity and better preparing them for the practice of law. (ii) CLE programs increase graduates understanding of pro bono, its significance for society and has the potential to influence graduates career choices. (iii) Lack of legal awareness and understanding is the perceived greatest obstacle to justice in Thailand. (iv) CLE programs have the capability of increasing access to justice within Thai society by offering direct legal services, such as legal counsel and legal education. Furthermore, overtime, they could also strengthen the rule of law and create a more professional and ethical legal profession within Thailand.

Reasons and prospects for return migration and reintegration in Myanmar from ASEAN countries

Title: Reasons and prospects for return migration and reintegration in Myanmar from ASEAN countries

Author: Hnin Phyu Phyu Myint

Year: 2013

Keywords: RETURN MIGRATION / HUMAN CAPITAL / ECONOMIC REINTEGRATION

Theme: Migration

Advisor(s): Supang Chantavanich

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis looks at skilled and unskilled economic migrant workers from Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand who have returned to Myanmar after receiving different kinds of human capital and how they integrate into Myanmar current economic reforms. The objectives of the research are to identify the factors of return to the country of origin by using the migration theory of push and pull factors from three major ASEAN receiving countries during 5 years and to analyze human capital and economic reintegration of returnees. The research is a qualitative case-study using in-depth interviews and snow ball sampling methodology and altogether 15 cases interviewed who returned from 3 ASEAN countries, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand comprising 5 cases per country, covering skilled and unskilled returned migrant workers within Yangon region.The study showed that the reasons of return home are mainly starting business, looking for new job opportunities and family reason both for voluntary and involuntary return. Both skilled and unskilled returnees’ reasons are examined by the theory of the structural approach of return migration. Most reasons are covered under the theory of return for starting business, return for family reunion, return for retirement and return for job opportunities. The research used the theory of human capital on what they learned from their country of destinations which include learned languages, working skills, working experiences, formal education and remittance. The reintegration process is different for skilled and unskilled returnees based on the human capital they received. While most of the skilled returnees are employees in international companies or NGOs with formal education, work experiences and working skills learned from other countries; the unskilled returnees used their remittances to start up the new business or to expand the existing family business. The process of reintegration process is also different between skilled and unskilled migrant workers. Skilled migrants can reintegrate better and faster compared to unskilled returned migrant workers. Normally the returned migrant workers took a significant time-frame of 6 months period for adaptation in reintegration of both self-employed and employee groups. Some returned for further studies, taking care of their own baby and retirement

Renewable energy development and environmental justice in Thailand : case studies of biomass energy projects in Roi-Et and Suphanburi province

Title: Renewable energy development and environmental justice in Thailand : case studies of biomass energy projects in Roi-Et and Suphanburi province

Author: Yeji Yoo

Year: 2013

Keywords: ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE/RENEWABLE ENERGY/BIOMASS POWER PLANT/THAILAND

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis examines the development of biomass energy projects in Thailand from the perspective of environmental justice. Thailand has allowed private power producers to generate energy from biomass, an important source of renewable energy, in order to increase energy security and to reduce CO2 emissions. However, some biomass projects in Thailand have resulted in negative environmental impacts and social problems, such as air pollution and health problems for villagers near the projects, and thus result in environmental injustices. Applying the concept of environmental justice, the thesis assesses conditions that ensure environmental justice in biomass power projects in Thailand. A case study was carried out using a qualitative methodology to collect data during field research conducted in Roi-Et and Suphanburi provinces in June 2013. This thesis points out firstly, that renewable energy generation is not always free of negative impacts to the environment and nearby communities. Secondly, construction including technology utilization and operational standards depend on the will of private companies due to loopholes in Thai policies and regulations. Lastly, the thesis argues that problems were not adequately addressed in the case in Roi-Et province because of the limited accountability of the business sector and provincial administrative government, as well as the limited influence of Local Administrative Organizations (LAOs) such as the Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) and Tambon Administrative Organization (TAO).

Capacity development in community based tourism

Title: Capacity development in community based tourism

Author: Laerke Lilith Thorndal-Debes

Year: 2013

Keywords: COMMUNITY BASED TOURISM / CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT / DEVELOPMENT / SUSTAINABILITY / THAILAND / PARTICIPATION / OWNERSHIP / LEADERSHIP / EMPOWERMENT

Theme: Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Suwattana Thadaniti, advisor, Niti Pawakapan, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Community based tourism (CBT) is tourism that takes environmental, social and cultural sustainability into account. It is managed and owned by the community for the community. This thesis will enter into a critical re-construction of the central concepts related to CBT in order to create a localized conceptual framework where analysis is based on a bottoms-up sociocultural sustainable view. Through this framework I will investigate the importance of capacity development in CBT. This will be done using a case study from Southern Thailand. CBT is often perceived as a sustainable and responsible form of tourism. However, there have been numerous examples of community based tourism failing. One main idea is that CBT fails if the community does not have the capacity to manage CBT in a sustainable way. The hypothesis of this paper is that capacity development of the villagers is essential to ensure a successful and sustainable outcome of CBT. Capacity development strengthens participation, ownership and local leadership in CBT and creates a sustainable base on which the community can develop. The purpose of this research is to analyze whether capacity development is an essential component for successful CBT projects. This research has an ethnographic approach and it includes a field study in two communities conducting CBT through the social enterprise Andaman Discoveries in the south of Thailand. The idea for tourism development in the area started in earnest after the tsunami as a part of a livelihood strategy that saw CBT creating a secondary source of income for the villagers while empowering them and developing their capacities. Data for the research was collected through semi-structured interviews and participatory observation from April to July 2013. The results of this study support the assumption that capacity development through CBT can create sustainable development. By working with CBT the people in the communities have increased their capacities, leading them to feeling more self-confident and possessing freedom of choice through new contacts, knowledge, new skills and cultural pride. The communities of the North Andaman coast and Andaman Discoveries seem to have struck up a great balance where the communities themselves are in charge of running and managing the CBT, and Andaman Discoveries helping with capacity development and marketing. The results of this study can help development actors wishing to use CBT as a way to achieve sustainable development in communities by guiding them to the defining aspects essential for a successful CBT endeavor, namely capacity development that strengthens participation, local ownership and local leadership.

The role of water governance in hydropower in Bhutan : a case study of Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project

Title: The role of water governance in hydropower in Bhutan : a case study of Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project

Author: Sangay Tashi

Year: 2013

Keywords: WATER GOVERNANCE / HYDROPOWER / EQUITY AND SUSTAINABILITY / DECISION-MAKING PROCESS

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Jakkirt Sangkhamanee

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This study investigates hydropower development in Bhutan, and analyses its roles of sustainability through the frame-work of water governance, focusing on the decision making process. The Royal Government of Bhutan’s aspiration to achieve “economic self-reliance” by the year 2020 has accelerated the construction of hydropower in various river basins. However, with its limitations on the implication of effective decision-making process and the nation’s water governance, impacts and resistance have emerged at the local level where the hydropower project are developed.The ongoing Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project development at Trongsa is taken as a case study to examine decision making process in water governance. To understand the dynamism, twenty five key informants from various organizations including Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project authority were extensively interviewed. Besides, two participatory focus group discussions in the villages of Samcholing and Kungarabten were held to understand people’s perspective. Lastly, this study also draws data from official reports, documents and Medias.Using the concept of water governance, this study argues that there is a lack of water governance in Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project. The study shows that while the process towards water governance is ongoing and being challenged by internal and external factors, the situation in country’s whole management can be considered merely as “water government”. The decision making process is still of traditional nature, a top–down approach. The other interesting phenomenon observed is the notion of “national interest” which indeed has overshadowed the new approach of decision making, i.e. the bottom-up or grassroots approach. This analysis helps us to understand why general public and the government tend to correspond to a call for greater national interest; at the time leaving a section of affected society unhappy in the GNH driven society. However, there is strong indication from the government in working towards water governance. Therefore, a paradigm shift from “water government” or from “state centric” to more “decentralized” integrated water governance is necessary for sustainable hydropower development in the country in general and Mangdechhu in particular

The psychological impacts of urban development on urban poverty : a case-study of Pharam 3 Community in Bangkok

Title: The psychological impacts of urban development on urban poverty : a case-study of Pharam 3 Community in Bangkok

Author: Gorawan Guntawong

Year: 2013

Keywords: URBAN POVERTY / URBAN PSYCHOLOGY / PSYCHOLOGY OF POVERTY/ PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT/ ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Theme: Post-development

Advisor(s): Pitch Pongsawat

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This paper advocates for increased collaboration between urban psychologists and development practitioners who work with low-income people to enhance the understanding of the political economy of urban poverty when developing poverty alleviation programs. Drawing on the “the psychology of poverty” and the “theory of socio-economic development”, this paper investigates the narratives of 17 low-income women in the Pharam 3 community. Their experiences and psychological impact as participants of a slum-upgrading project and their life as an urban poor individual in Bangkok were collected using in-depth interviews. Each interview were transcribed, reviewed and coded according to units of meaning that is related to the phenomenon that is being investigated. The findings indicated that despite the success of the slum upgrading project in empowering the people within this community, it is evident that societal pressures from the individual’s life settings can influence decision making processes. Therefore the “psychology of poverty” can be an underlying factor that can lead to unsustainable decision-making which can impact the sustainability of poverty alleviation programs.

Armed conflict, internally displaced persons and protection in Kachin state, Myanmar

Title: Armed conflict, internally displaced persons and protection in Kachin state, Myanmar

Author: Zaw Lut

Year: 2013

Keywords: MYANMAR ARMED CONFLICT / INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS / MIGRATION, PATTERNS / PROTECTION AND HUMAN SECURITY IN KACHIN STATE

Theme: Migration

Advisor(s): Supang Chantavanich

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Internally displacement issues which phenomenon is quite similar with refugee gets mor attention from the world. According to the Internally Displacement Monitoring Center eport, 2011 described there were approximately 26.4 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) around the world. As Myanmar has been known for the home of the world longest civil war running country, the internally displacement phenomenon is gaining more attention and displacement numbers is growing year. Armed conflict between ethnic armed groups and Myanmar government military is going on since before Myanmar independence 1947 up to now in eastern, southern and northern parts the country where majority of the ethnic people are living. According to the Thai Border Consortium 2012, the estimation IDPs in the Eastern and Southern part of Myanmar is 4000,000. Since 2011, armed conflict between Kachin independent Army and Myanmar government military is carrying on, over 100,000 internally displaced persons, which is the greatest displacement ever in Kachin state, majority of IDPs are taking refuge along the Myanmar China border. Yet, Myanmar government have not recognized the IDPs officially therefore, IDPs are unprotected from being human right violations and humanitarian aids situation is worse. Therefore, this thesis focuses on armed conflict, migration pattern of IDPs, protction and human security of IDPs. How armed conflict affected to the IDPs, human security condition and function of protection mechanism for IDPs during the displacement. The key findings in this research indicate that 2011 Kachin armed conflict is rooted on political economic incentives of the Myanmar government and China. IDPs who moved into Laiz area are socially, geographically, and politically connected with KIO. All seven dimensions of Human security is not secure especially economic security and education is great challeges for the IDPs for their futurel. Eventually, IDPs have not legal-bonded protection though they are suffering from the human right violation and political rights are absent voting for 2015 is still a dream for IDPs.

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:

The Role of military in disaster relief : case study on the relationship between the Royal Thai Army and government agencies in flood 2011 in Bangkok

Title: The Role of military in disaster relief : case study on the relationship between the Royal Thai Army and government agencies in flood 2011 in Bangkok

Author: Wutthisan Luangjinda

Year: 2012

Keywords: MILITARY / GOVERNMENT AGENCIES / DISASTER RELIEF /, COORDINATION / FLOOD 2011/ BANGKOK

Theme: Disaster and Crisis Management

Advisor(s): Panitan Wattanayagorn

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This study focuses on the role of the Royal Thai Army (RTA) in disaster relief operations during the flood 2011 in Bangkok. This is aimed to understand the fundamental barriers faced by the RTA in interfacing with government agencies in disaster relief operations. It also analyzes the weaknesses of the existing interfacing mechanism as well as determines the possible ways in minimizing the fundamental barriers for the interfacing process with government agencies. The study uses qualitative approach for the case-study, utilizing content analysis of written materials and key informant interviews in the form of semi-conducted style on the RTA units and key government agencies who were involved in the disaster relief operation during the Thailand Flood in 2011 in Bangkok. This study uses the Coordination Model, developed by the National Institute of Justice, the United Stated Department of Justice, to analyze the qualitative data from the interviews. This study revealed that the difficulties for the RTA can be categorized at two levels, policy level and operation level. There is also some gap between these levels during the disaster relief operations in the flood 2011 in Bangkok, which helps to understand the difference in the thoughts and concerns of the personnel of both levels. However, one major common difficulty for both levels is the unawareness and unpreparedness for this prolonged flooding. The relief operations were done at hand with very limited knowledge and experiences, creating complexity in management of assistances. The vital concern at the policy level is the legal and structural aspect of barrier. The role of the military in disaster relief is stated to be the supporting one, which means that the RTA must only operate upon the requests of other agencies in disaster relief. At the operation level, it is found that the vital concern is the relief equipment as the existing equipment is not designed for relief operations in such prolonged flood situation. From this study, it is reflected that the collective awareness and preparedness for natural disasters are not thoroughly promoted nor productively utilized for national plan.

The role of local ombudsman committee in promoting good governance : a case study of the local public ombudsman in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Title: The role of local ombudsman committee in promoting good governance : a case study of the local public ombudsman in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Author: Fransiskus Adrian Tarmedi

Year: 2012

Keywords: OMBUDSMAN/ LOCAL OMBUDSMAN COMMITTEE/ GOOD GOVERNANCE/ DECENTRALIZATION/ LOCAL DEVELOPMENT

Theme: Post-development

Advisor(s): Pitch Pongsawat, advisor, Nualnoi Treerat, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Nowadays, good governance has become an important issue to be discussed within the international development framework. Many developing countries try to implement good governance principles through many forms; one of them is to establish ombudsman committees. An ombudsman committee is an institution which functions to monitor public service deliverance from government agencies to the society through the form of external complaint handling system. In principles, ombudsman is neutral, independent, and no other parties can interfere. The function of public service monitoring itself is to keep the balance of the rights of citizens as public service clients and the obligation of government in conducting clean and good governance. This research focuses on the role and activities of ombudsman as an institution and also as a development agent which promotes good governance with a case study of local public ombudsman in Yogyakarta. The objectives of this research are to describe the decentralization process of public service monitoring to the local level, to identify the relations between two ombudsman systems in Indonesia which take forms of national ombudsman (NO) and local ombudsman committee (LOC) while trying to understand the problems and challenges being faced within the context of good governance and public service deliverance, and to analyze the role of local public ombudsman in local and national development framework. The research uses qualitative methods to gather data using reports, document analysis, semi-structured and in-depth interviews using key respondents from relevant stakeholders involved on the issue. Various perspectives were gathered from local public ombudsman, national ombudsman, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, the academic community and mass media of Yogyakarta. The research finds out that LOC could be seen as a breakthrough within national development framework. Some of the problems being faced are the limitation of human resources and operational budget and the shift in national policies which affect the existence of some LOCs. People who use the service of ombudsman find that the presence of ombudsman in society helps them to claim their rights, get a settlement through mediation, and receive an informal legal consultation. It is hoped that the role of LOC in ensuring good governance practices will bring social justice which will contribute to development of local society.

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.

Remitance and rural development in Chin State : case study of Aibur village

Title: Remitance and rural development in Chin State : case study of Aibur village

Author: Rual Lian Thang

Year: 2012

Keywords: MIGRATION/ REMITTANCE/ CHIN PEOPLE/ RURAL, DEVELOPMENT

Theme: Migration

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

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The paper examines the impact of Chin migrant’s remittances on development of rural Chin community. A case study was done in Aibur community in Aibur village and Hakha. A questionnaire, interview, and observation were used to collect data about livelihood, flow and patterns of expenditures of remittance, and social security of the community. The preliminary results of the research show that remittance is an important and stable source of income for Chin people in rural community. From the survey done in the Aibur, 80 percent of the villagers receive remittances from families living abroad. Six of households totally rely on remittance for their income and 23 percents of households receive up to 50 percents of their income from remittance. The rest 50 percents of households receive remittance but cannot cover all their expenses and have to work on cultivation for their survival. The majority of remittance is mainly used by families for daily basic needs, followed by expenditure on housing, education, and health. Through distributing within the community, remittance is also used for social welfare and infrastructures such as construction of road, mini-hydro eclectic power, and school. This research paper argues that remittance has an important role on human capital development, better livelihood and some infrastructural development. However, there is no immediate economic development because there was insufficient money and limited opportunities for productive investment due to weak infrastructure and widespread poverty within the community.