Study on the Current Status and Challenges Encountered in Preparing Thai Accounting Students for ASEAN in the Vocational Education Stream /

Title: Study on the Current Status and Challenges Encountered in Preparing Thai Accounting Students for ASEAN in the Vocational Education Stream /

Author: Patamasiri Hoonthong

Year: 2015

Keywords: ASEAN PREPARATION VOCATIONAL EDUCATION MRA ON ACCOUNTANCY, SERVICES CHALLENGES

Theme: Education

Advisor(s): Apipa Prachyapruit

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) signed a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) Framework on Accountancy Services in 2009 for the region to enjoy labor mobility of accounting professions. Thailand as one of the members has been tremendously affected, especially in the education sector that is responsible for the labor preparation. Yet, most studies conducted to date put little emphasis on statuses and challenges of the sector in preparing the future ASEAN workforce so as to respond to the provided opportunity. Specifically, vocational education, which its claimed advantage is to connect labor to the labor market, was altogether neglected. The study was conducted using multiple in-depth interviews with main stakeholders in the vocational education stream in 3 layers so as to triangulate and attain comprehensive information: (i) Office of Vocational Education Commission (OVEC) as a national level ; (ii) ‘Best Practice’ vocational colleges in Bangkok and the Northeast as an institutional level and (iii) Market perception as an industrial sector. The data were collected by a documentary study, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 24 respondents in total. The result revealed that (i) at the national level, the preparation in the vocational education stream could not adequately prepare vocational accounting students to enter ASEAN confidently. Even though English preparation and employment security were OVEC’s strategic preparations, they took for granted the benefit of MRA ; (ii) at the institutional level, the challenges were not location-based but system-based ; and (iii) at the market level, despite the career positions that did not require BA graduates’ skills and knowledge, the market preferred vocational graduates in secondary to the general education ones. Based on the study, OVEC is suggested to improve these 5 areas of implementation as follows: (i) Policy should focus on incentive building to call in younger generations of instructors to the stream and close interaction with the industrial sector, especially at the ASEAN level ; (ii) Curriculum should be reviewed and updated on a regular basis and should be ASEAN-centric rather than Thai-centric ; (iii) Instructor development should be short-term and long-term on a regular basis ; (iv) Student development should be career-specific in order to make MRA in Accountancy Services more meaningful to the Thai context and (v) Vocational Qualification Framework should be developed by close collaboration with the Federation of Accounting Professions (FAP) and Thailand Professional Qualification Institute (TPQI).

Myanmar garment industry after 2012 : trade and industrialrelations in Yangon industrial zone

Title: Myanmar garment industry after 2012 : trade and industrialrelations in Yangon industrial zone

Author: Soe, Sandar Oo

Year: 2015

Keywords: SANCTION, TRADE, INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS, LABOR RIGHTS, SOE SANDAR OO: MYANMAR GARMENT INDUSTRY AFTER 2012: TRADE AND, INDUSTRIALRELATIONS IN YANGON INDUSTRIAL ZONE

Theme: Post-development

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Myanmar, recent reformed in political and economic has the competitive advantage of cheap labor especially in labor intensive garment sector which started in 1989 together with the country's policy of open market oriented economy. Garment sector attracted foreign companies to invest in Myanmar and became one of the major export sector employed millions of workers after the enactment of Foreign Investment Law in November 1988. In 2003, United State of America (US) blocked exports from Myanmar due to bad record of human rights and democracy. Since then, the industry began to get effect of sanctions gradually in particular falling export and unemployment. In 2012, after transforming Myanmar towards democratic country by 2010 election, US released its imported ban on Myanmar-made products. The European Union (EU) reinstated the generalized specific preference (GSP). This study look at the situation of Myanmar Garment Industry after sanction released in 2012 within the concept of industrial relations about how the government shape the political economy of the export oriented economy in accordance with the political opportunities like GSP, how labor unions protect labor rights and how employers perform to improve garment trade and to understand the situation of trade and industrial relations in industrial zone focus on the Hlaing Thar Yar industrial zone where most of the garment factories situated. This thesis shows the development of labor organization who are working towards increasing trade and improving labor rights in Myanmar. It also sees the corporation of government in negotiating between employees and employers by rules of law and legitimacy aspect towards good industrial relations practice

WATER MANAGEMENT CONFLICT IN PERI-URBAN AREA : A CASE STUDY OF LANTAKFA, NAKHON CHAISI, NAKHON PATHOM

Title: WATER MANAGEMENT CONFLICT IN PERI-URBAN AREA : A CASE STUDY OF LANTAKFA, NAKHON CHAISI, NAKHON PATHOM

Author: Khemarin Pensaengon

Year: 2015

Keywords: PERI- URBAN / WATER MANAGEMENT / WATER CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Pitch Pongsawat

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Water is an important resource, although it is a renewable resource. Water is essential not only in our daily life, but also in production activities. Changing pattern of water using led to conflicts among different groups of water users in many areas. Lantakfa’s water using was changing the pattern along the transformation of the area. The purposes of this research are to explain causes of conflict in water management in Lantakfa sub-district and to identify the roles of water management institution in the resolution of water conflict. The study will adopt the concept of peri-urbanization and modern conflict theory to analyze the water management conflict in Lantakfa, Nakhon Chaisri, Nakhon Pathom. To identify how stakeholders respond through water management in Lantakfa, Nakhon Chaisi, Nakhon Pathom the research was based on documentation, participation and observation. Additionally data for the analysis come from interview with various groups of people including rice farmers, lotus farmers, prawn farmers, area experts, and governmental authorities from Tambon Administration Organization to Royal Irrigation Department in Nakhon Chaisi, Nakon Pathom. The study found out that under extension of urban area, water resources have increasingly been used in non-agricultural activities. Since it was previously served for agriculture activities that resulted in water management conflict and environmental threats to the former residents of Latakfa community. In conclusion, changing pattern of water using in Latakfa is associated with the context of urban extension. Although the problem in water management have become more complicated, the government authorities hardly modify the pattern of management along the changing context

Policy and institutional arrangement for water resource management : case study in Hakha watershed, Chin State, Myanmar

Title: Policy and institutional arrangement for water resource management : case study in Hakha watershed, Chin State, Myanmar

Author: Van Bawi Lian

Year: 2015

Keywords: WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT / HAKHA / WATER SCARCITY /, FORMAL AND INFORMAL INSTITUTIONS / INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCE, MANAGEMENT (IWRM)

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Hakha, the capital city of Chin State, Myanmar has been facing severe water shortage, water insecurity and water-related resources degradation for over a decade. The people in Hakha town are unable to meet their basic needs related to water, including for clean drinking water, domestic use, and for food requirements. This thesis addresses the research question: What are the major development changes, impacts of water access and allocation, and institutions, policy and laws in Hakha? The thesis is based on qualitative research that involved key informant interviews, focus group discussions and stakeholder analysis. The thesis finds that there have been major development changes in Hakha in term of infrastructure construction, population growth, land use and deforestation, and political systems. People in Hakha suffer shortages of water, and water scarcity impacts on economics, health and social life. In term of institutions for water resources management, formal institutions are unable to coordinate water access and allocation because of the inadequate laws and policies, while informal institutions marginalized from participation in decision-making processes. The thesis recommends that formal institutions, laws and policies must be drafted that reflect the actual needs and challenges in Hakha town. Furthermore, informal institutions should be allowed to fully participate to promote community-based decision making in watershed and water resources management.

Land Dispossession, Access to Justice and The Role of Community Based Organizations (CBOs) : A Case Study of Maubin

Title: Land Dispossession, Access to Justice and The Role of Community Based Organizations (CBOs) : A Case Study of Maubin

Author: Nwe Ni Soe

Year: 2015

Keywords: COMMUNITY BASED ORGANISATION (CBO), CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATION (CSO),, LAND DISPOSSESSION, LAND TENURE SECURUTY, ACCESS TO JUSTICE

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Land is the most important asset for Myanmar population dependent on access to land for their livelihoods. During the past several years, land dispossession has accelerated causing social, political and economic ramifications. Historical land dispossession also remains a significant challenge until the present day. This has provoked a response from civil society actors and farmers who have engaged with different approaches to battle land disputes. This thesis is a result of a qualitative field research utilizing various methods: documentary research, exploratory research, focus group discussions, in-depth and expert interviews all including 21 people and focused detail on three CBOs based on diverse approaches, having different levels of achievements and failure over the past several years. Maubin Township is one of the most land problem areas in Myanmar and CBOs are working to solve their problems. The analyses are made by looking at land tenure security and land dispossession, farmers’ access to justice for land losses, and the role of civil society organizations in promoting access to justice and eliminating land issues. Even though CBOs’ role in battling land issues and mobilizing farmers to promote their access to justice can be considered to have had positive impact, there are gaps and barriers in process and implementation. Farmers and CSOs have yet to see good results because there are restrictions created by the government’s centralized control and weak legal mechanisms. CBOs have used different approaches to promote farmers’ access to justice; however, their work is affected by their weaknesses, for instance the lack of strong coordination among themselves. There have also been cases where there was friction among themselves because of their political inclinations. Other civil society stakeholders focus their work on pushing forward better land laws and policies for the longer-term benefits. Even though this is a right approach, these groups need the government’s cooperation as the government is still in favor of using a controversial and manipulative mixture of old and new laws in accordance with the problematic constitution. This thesis argues that the work of CBOs has both strengths; using different strategies and awareness providers on land issues to communities, and weaknesses; less influence on land management bodies and companies and limited resources and their informal or casual way of working can affect their performances. To facilitate access to justice, CBOs should have better networking, managing community expectation and harm reduction among stakeholders, and cooperate formal or structured patterns with different level of stakeholders. Furthermore, Myanmar’s current legal mechanisms are struggling with corruption and inefficiency, therefore improving land laws and policies would be the key solution for the long-term gain and for mitigating land issues

Strengthening Water Governance in Vietnam: A Case Study of Community Response to Water Insecurity in Vinh Quang Ward, Rach Gia City, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam

Title: Strengthening Water Governance in Vietnam: A Case Study of Community Response to Water Insecurity in Vinh Quang Ward, Rach Gia City, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam

Author: Phuong Tran Lan Pham

Year: 2015

Keywords: ATER SECURITY, WATER GOVERNANCE, VINH QUANG, WARD

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Vinh Quang Ward is a coastal ward of Rach Gia City, Kien Giang Province which is located in Mekong Delta of Vietnam. Local people deal with water shortage for their domestic use because of salinity intrusion about one month of April 2016. The purpose of this thesis is to understand and improve water governance so as to strengthen water security in Vinh Quang Ward. There were two major concepts for this thesis, namely water security and water governance. For this research, I interviewed twenty-five people in three different villages to have an overview about the issue throughout two years. I interviewed one academic from An Giang University and one from Southern Institute of Water Resources Research to learn about how severe salinity intrusion was. During drought, the piped water distribution system is insufficient so local people struggled with water to reach their daily demand. I also figured out the impacts on local people’s health, livelihood, and business, especially the poor and women. The poor and women who are located further far from centre of city relied on ground water for their domestic use which was not good at quality. This study also revealed weak water governance in Vietnam. The argument of this thesis is that water governance must be strengthened. In other words, water insecurity is not a result of physical water scarcity alone, but also relates to how decisions are taken towards how to address this issue.

Corporate Social Responsibility in the Sugarcane Industry and Its Implications on Sustainable Development : A Case Study of Mitr Phol Sugar Corporation’s CSR Policy and Practice in Suphanburi Province, Thailand

Title: Corporate Social Responsibility in the Sugarcane Industry and Its Implications on Sustainable Development : A Case Study of Mitr Phol Sugar Corporation’s CSR Policy and Practice in Suphanburi Province, Thailand

Author: Colin Morgan Carpenter

Year: 2015

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Ake Tangsupvattana

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This paper investigates Mitr Phol’s Sugar Company’s engagement with CSR policy and practice and its contribution to sustainable development within a farming community. The study examines the firm’s CSR motivation, and how this integrates concepts of stakeholder engagement and mitigates impacts on the environment. This topic was chosen to highlight Mitr Phol’s aim to address sustainability issues through dialogue and the empowerment of stakeholder communities. A qualitative case study approach was applied and involved interviewing key executives and managers, as well as conducting focus groups with community elders from municipal villages. The adaptation of corporate social performance (CSP) models and sustainable development frameworks shed light on the responsibility, responsiveness and outcome of CSR practice and its ramification on the community. It is revealed that CSR policy and practice are formulated at managerial levels and primarily focus on constructive engagements with stakeholders and commitments towards environmental sustainability. Mitr Phol does not merely aim to identify issues in the community, but strives towards building the capacity and knowledge of stakeholders, so they can actualize their own development initiatives. The firm practices balanced sustainability and acknowledges that it can only maintain natural capital to a certain degree. As a transnational economic agent, the company endeavors to integrate CSR throughout the company’s core competencies. The results of this study are useful for companies engaging in CSR.

Networks of practice around open science : a case study on the House of Natural Fiber Foundation in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Title: Networks of practice around open science : a case study on the House of Natural Fiber Foundation in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Author: Hermes Taikan Huang

Year: 2014

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton, advisor, Denisa Kera, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Open science is a burgeoning concept and practice that promotes the production of scientific knowledge in a way that is accessible, transparent, and inclusive; in this sense, it is relevant to development studies. The house of Natural Fiber Foundation has been involving the practice of science, as well as art and other creative endeavors, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia since 1999. In the process, the House of Natural Fiber Foundation has created a cosmopolitan network of participants and collaborators, which has implemented various interdisciplinary projects and events between formal and informal institutions of science. This thesis assesses this network’s diversity and its views on openness, collaboration, science, and community development. There is a profound gap in research regarding open science communities in Asia, much less Indonesia, and the work of these communities is critical for understanding the potential for international development efforts both locally and internationally. Through a combination of participant observation, textual and web analysis, key informant interviews, and survey questionnaires, this research found that the community of practice around open science in Yogyakarta has the potential to represent a model for community development

The study of Thailand's high school policy, curriculum, and pedagogy for the incorporation of Learning to Live Together (LTLT) principles Imprint

Title: The study of Thailand's high school policy, curriculum, and pedagogy for the incorporation of Learning to Live Together (LTLT) principles Imprint

Author: Maura Cusack

Year: 2014

Keywords: HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION / LEARNING TO LIVE TOGETHER / CHILD, CENTER PEDAGOGY

Theme: Education

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton, advisor, Jerrold W. Huguet, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: It’s been almost twenty years since the concept of Learning To Live Together (LTLT) ; one of the four pillars of learning and a vitally important element for peaceful and successful living for the 21st century was endorsed by UNESCO for education for the twenty-first century. This research is an attempt to evaluate if LTLT or global citizenship skills have been successfully implemented through ; strategic policy making ; in tactical arrangements such as in curriculum planning and design, and finally through implementation in pedagogy in high schools in Thailand. Taught correctly these skills have a deep and profound influence on a young mind. The researcher will evaluate education policy and analyses the extent this is evident in the social studies/civics curriculum and how successful or not it is in the pedagogy. Using LTLT competencies: knowledge of others ; empathy ; acceptance ; cultural sensitivity, communication skills, community involvement, teamwork, trust and political participation as a conceptual framework, the researcher will carry out case studies in two schools in Bangkok and ascertain if these competencies are being taught and more importantly how are they been taught. Transformational styles of pedagogy including student centred ; problem solving ; action/project based group work are examples of necessary teaching skills required for success. The researcher will challenge that even though LTLT or a global citizenship outlook is pledged in policy and curriculum, in practice it is poorly delivered because of a traditional teacher -centred pedagogy. Findings revealed that the core curriculum and social studies curricula do recognize some of the content of LTLT albeit not all of the competencies. The research also revealed a lack of connection between the expectation derived from government policy and the MOE, the social studies curriculum, school and teachers. Teaching practices were also inconsistent with the mandates which advocated a learner-centred focus and for students to take more initiatives in and become independent with their learning. The study exposed a distinctly teacher-centred style of pedagogy was being used whereby the focus was on the teacher controlling rather than on learner autonomy in the social studies classroom.

Natural resource governance and the politics of knowledge: A case study of the Kamoethway River Valley in Myanmar

Title: Natural resource governance and the politics of knowledge: A case study of the Kamoethway River Valley in Myanmar

Author: Lisa Schimetat

Year: 2014

Keywords: CONSERVATION / ENVIRONMENT / KNOWLEDGE / WATER GOVERNANCE /, MYANMAR

Theme: Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: With rising international investment interest in Myanmar, natural resources have become an increasingly important issue of governance. The Kamoethway River Valley in the Tanintharyi Region reflects this concern due to expanding extractive and development industries, opportunities borne as a result of an agreed ceasefire between the Myanmar Government and the Karen National Union (KNU). Such initiatives have placed strain on the natural resources in the area, once abundant and still depended on by local communities. This unsustainable activity has acquired the attention of leading international conservation organisations and as a result has lead to efforts in reserving protected areas. The purpose of this Thesis is to discuss the politics of knowledge that surround the issues of natural resource governance arising as a result of the numerous stakeholders involved. This Thesis takes a community-level approach and aims to unearth the complexities surrounding knowledge production and use and the impact this has on governance. The research used a qualitative methodology, including over 40 interviews and a number of focus group discussions with members of the Kamoethway River Valley Community, leading CSOs and NGOs in the area. A key priority of this research is to identify the impact the contestation of knowledge has on local communities and how knowledge can be used as a tool with which to participate in natural resource governance. Key findings as a result of the undertaken research indicate that despite the overall clarity and linear understanding of natural resource governance, underlying dynamics, such as the politics of knowledge, complicate and indirectly impact those most dependent on natural resources. Results have shown that with increasing development ventures in Kamoethway, comes an increase in knowledge contestation that often disregards the voice of local communities. This has often led to local communities being accused of anti-development sentiments further alienating them from decision-making processes. This Thesis concludes that local communities hold the capacity, knowledge and willingness for development

Social movement on Myitsone Hydropower Dam Project in Kachin State, Burma/Myanmar

Title: Social movement on Myitsone Hydropower Dam Project in Kachin State, Burma/Myanmar

Author: Hkawn Ja Aung

Year: 2014

Keywords: SOCIAL MOVEMENT / MYITSONE HYDROPOWER DAM PROJECT / BURMA/MYANMAR

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: In 2006, the Myitsone Dam was proposed to be built at the confluence of Mali Hka and Nmai Hka Rivers in Kachin State by the Burmese government and a Chinese company. Whilst 90% of electricity would go to China, millions of people who depend on the Ayeyarwady River in Burma would be affected due to environmental and social impacts. The initial construction, which started in 2009, produced immediate impacts such as forced resettlement, loss of livelihoods, properties, and lands, loss of fish species, and deforestation. Hence, local affected people opposed the project and a social movement grew that eventually included media, non-state actors and political parties. On 30th September 2011, President Thein Sein officially suspended the construction of Myitsone Dam in his presidential term until 2015. The purpose of this thesis is to study the emergence of this social movement at the Myitsone Hydropower Dam project. Applying the hybrid conceptual framework of Resource Mobilization and political opportunity, the thesis focuses on the organizing skills of local communities, and how they gained support from the outside and the political opportunities that arose. This research uses qualitative methodologies in data collection &ndash ; reports and document analysis, focus group discussion and in-depth interviews with key respondents in field work. Data information is gathered from local communities including two relocated villages, civil societies, politicians and activists mainly in Kachin State and Yangon. The study also explores how the decision for suspension of this project has had further implications for other large scale project governance in Burma, particularly hydropower projects. The main research finding is that the local communities were trying to reach out the effects of this project to many regions while they were struggling for their survivals due to forced relocation and loss of livelihoods. The involvement of various factors such as funding, coordinating, media coverage and legal supports have supported this movement into public affairs. It also finds that that the Myitsone project vividly differentiated the different political roles of local ethnic armed groups in Kachin State. The thesis concludes that the suspension of Myitsone project has been one of the evidences of democratic transition for the President and the new government, and that the Myitsone social movement stood as a symbol for other social movements since political transition.

Infrastructure development by using Public - Private Partnership (PPP) policy : A case study of Yangon International Airport Expansion, Myanmar

Title: Infrastructure development by using Public - Private Partnership (PPP) policy : A case study of Yangon International Airport Expansion, Myanmar

Author: Nwe Ni Win Kyaw

Year: 2014

Keywords: INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT / PPP POLICY /, ACCOUNTABILITY / TRANSPARENCY

Theme: Post-development

Advisor(s): Prakorn Siriprakob

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Infrastructure development is crucial to economic development of developing countries. Due to the financial, technical and management facilities are lacking, many countries have undertaken infrastructure development projects via smart partnerships with the international or private organizations. Such partnership where the private sector engages in public assets is called Public- Private Partnership (PPP). The new civilian government of Myanmar has embarked on a PPP policy to develop local infrastructure and encourage growth. In line with its PPP policy, this is the expansion project of Yangon International Airport (YIA), one of the major transport gateways in Myanmar. This research focused on the transparency and accountability of government regulations and procedures in PPP projects using the case-study of YIA. The objectives of research are to analyze the development of YIA and to estimate the project risks under the current PPP practices.The research used qualitative method to obtain data using document analysis as well as via interviews with relevant stakeholders such as technical experts from aviation units, government's authority, airport users and shared private companies. The expansion for YIA is one the first projects using PPP policy in Myanmar. This PPP programme will be started before the end of 2014 for reconstruction, expansion, operations, management and maintenance work. There are the findings of negative points in YIA such as unclear tender selection, poor regulations and procedure delaying. But it has also good point that the policy is moving towards international practices .So, the research is able to determine that the current PPP policy is beneficial to YIA development but there weaknesses in terms of implementation of the regulations and procedures. It is hoped that this research can contribute important data on lessons learnt for future PPP projects especially in the airport infrastructure development field of Myanmar

Sand mining and villagers' livelihood in Prek Angkun Village of Koh Kong City, Cambodia

Title: Sand mining and villagers' livelihood in Prek Angkun Village of Koh Kong City, Cambodia

Author: Sreng, Sovanny

Year: 2014

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Niti Pawakapan

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: A research topic of "Sand Mining and Villagers' Livelihood in Prek Angkun village, Koh Kong city, Cambodia" proposed to understand impact of sand mining on local villagers' economic livelihood. To guide the research, three research questions utilized: 1) to analyze impact of sand mining on villagers' economic livelihood, 2) to identify villagers'coping strategies utilize to cope with the challenge, 3) to examine whether those coping strategies can help villagers to ease their livelihood challenges. DFID's sustainable livelihood conceptual framework utilized in the study. Qualitative research method is chosen to conduct the study, and a number of qualitative research techniques utilized: semi-structured interview, focus group discussion, key informant interviews, and seasonal calendar. 14 villagers, village headman of the village, and an officer of Koh Kong Department of fishery requested to participate in the interviewing. Nine villagers are asked voluntarily to join the interview, five other villagers in the village are also requested to participate in group discussion, and two key informants, one village head and one officer of department of fishery are pledged to join the interview. The research reveals that sand mining produces adverse impacts on the villagers' economic livelihood because the sand mining cause depletion of fish stock which is villagers' main livelihood. In order to cope with the challenge, villagers utilize a number of coping strategies to response to the adverse effects. Although they are pursuing those coping strategies, their livelihoods are not same as before. A lot of villagers migrate outside of the village to look for job opportunity and receive loans from bank. Overall, it can be said that sand mining produce negative effects to Prek Angkun villages' economic livelihood. Although for the time being, the current coping strategies could possibly help them to survive, but in the long run if natural resources are not recovered their livelihood would possibly encounter more challenge

Outside the old enclave : A new Chinese immigrant neighborhood in Bangkok

Title: Outside the old enclave : A new Chinese immigrant neighborhood in Bangkok

Author: Guanyu Ran

Year: 2014

Keywords: NEW CHINESE IMMIGRANT / OVERSEAS CHINESE / IMMIGRANT, NEIGHBORHOOD / IMMIGRANT TRANSITION

Theme: Migration

Advisor(s): Supang Chantavanich, advisor, Wasana Wongsurawat, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Bangkok's Chinatown has a history of over 233 years, since 1782. Though its geographical spread has stopped, it is still a community filled with vibrant economic and cultural activities. As Chinatown’s expansion slows, a new Chinese immigrant neighborhood emerges in a different location. Here you can easily find evidence of Chinese presence. For the Chinese newcomers who decide to stay longer in Bangkok, this new neighborhood is an ideal living area. This research was conducted in order to gain a better understanding of new Chinese immigrants and their neighborhood in Bangkok. Two main international migration theories were adopted for the conceptual framework: “Push-pull” factors theory analyzes the reasons for coming to the neighborhood, and 4-stage model of immigrant settlement theory evaluates the formation, function and maintaining of the new immigrant neighborhood. Qualitative methods of interview (semi-structured and in-depth), non-participate observation, community mapping and document reviewing revealed that most new Chinese immigrants in Bangkok today come for better development. The new neighborhood mainly functions as a residential and business zone; the most important way to maintain their new neighborhood is business nexus. Findings show that the newcomers are very different to the old Chinese immigrants. This research also provides some recommendations for relevant policy makers both in Thailand and China in order to help new immigrants integrate better into the host country. It proves that some classical international immigrant theories are not suitable for analyzing the current international immigration trends because of the ever-changing characteristics of international immigrants and the global environment

Tourism in Myanmar and the potential for sustainability of the lacquerware industry

Title: Tourism in Myanmar and the potential for sustainability of the lacquerware industry

Author: Zar Ni Maung

Year: 2014

Keywords: TOURISM DEVELOPMENT / LACQUERWARE INDUSTRY /, LACQUERWARE ENTREPRENEURS AND CRAFTSMEN / MYIN-KA-BAR, VILLAGE / BAGAN

Theme: Post-development

Advisor(s): Niti Pawakapan

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Bagan is an ancient city which is one of Myanmar's most famous tourism sites. Most of the inhabitants of Bagan rely on tourism-related business and the town is famous for its specialty lacquerware souvenir products. Since 2011 after democratization, international tourist arrivals have increased and along with it, the demand for lacquerware. The purpose of this thesis is to illustrate how tourism development influences lacquerware production, trade and socio-economic conditions of lacquerware entrepreneurs and craftsmen in Bagan before and after 2011 as well as to establish the role of the Lacquerware Technology College in sustainability of the lacquerware industry in Bagan. This thesis puts forward the hypothesis that there are both positive and negative impacts on the local lacquerware industry by the tourism industry. This study uses qualitative methods, namely key-informant interviews, focus group discussions and observational methods to collect evidence to answer the research questions. The site chosen to carry out research was Myin-Ka-Bar village, Bagan; the main production source of lacquerware in the area. Although lacquerware and its related businesses have substantially increased due to tourism there are some threats to the long-term sustainability of the industry due to the lack of interest by the younger generation of locals. This thesis concludes that without the tourism industry and its continued growth, the lacquerware industry itself would die a natural death. This research aims to demonstrate the influence of tourism development on lacquerware production, trade, and the economic and social conditions of lacquerware entrepreneurs and artisans in Bagan before and after 2011. Furthermore, it aims to study the impact of tourism on the related lacquerware business and the role of the Lacquerware Technology College in ensuring the sustainability of the lacquerware industry in Bagan. Bagan, an ancient city located in northern Myanmar, is one of the country's most famous tourist destinations, known for its more than 2,000 ancient sites and pagodas dating back to the 11th century. The city's inhabitants largely relied on tourism-related businesses, and it is renowned both nationally and internationally for its production of lacquerware souvenirs. In 2011, the number of tourists increased due to Myanmar's democratization, impacting Bagan as well. As a result, the demand for lacquerware souvenirs increased, suggesting that the entire regional lacquerware trade depends on tourist numbers. The bamboo and resin-dyed lacquerware business improved after 2011 as a result of tourism development. Despite the development of the lacquerware business, there remains relatively low interest among younger locals in joining the industry, and it is unclear how it can be managed to become a sustainable industry while demand continues to rise. Small-scale lacquerware entrepreneurs were unable to sell their products directly to tourists. They relied on large, roadside lacquerware shops with easy access to tourists. These large shops not only produced their own goods but also purchased lacquerware souvenirs from small villagers through middlemen because their own production couldn't meet the high demand during the tourist season. Even though both large and small entrepreneurs lived in the same village or nearby areas, the small-scale entrepreneurs were heavily reliant on middlemen for sales. The demand for lacquerware souvenirs increased significantly after 2011, resulting in full employment for village artisans. Before 2011, the tourism industry was unstable, leading to low employment and unemployment among artisans, forcing them to migrate elsewhere or seek alternative work in Bagan. After 2011, they no longer needed to seek other employment because the increased demand for lacquerware souvenirs created more job opportunities and better offers for lacquerware artisans. A lacquerware training school, established in Bagan during the British colonial era, was upgraded to a Lacquerware Technology College, providing training not only in Bagan but also throughout rural Myanmar. This study employed qualitative research methods, including purposive interviews, focus group discussions, and observation, to collect data and gather evidence to answer the research questions. This thesis uses the assumption that tourism has both positive and negative impacts on the local lacquerware industry. However, the research concludes that without tourism and its continued growth, the lacquerware industry would naturally decline. Keywords: Tourism development, lacquerware industry, craftsmen and investors in the lacquerware business, Myankabar Village, Bagan, Pagan.

Negotiating the regime of identification : a case study on displaced persons in Mae La Refugee Camp and Mae Sot township

Title: Negotiating the regime of identification : a case study on displaced persons in Mae La Refugee Camp and Mae Sot township

Author: Supatsak Pobsuk

Year: 2014

Keywords: DISPLACED PERSONS / REFUGEE / REFUGEE CAMP / BORDER TOWN /, GOVERNMENTALITY / NEGOTIATION

Theme: Migration

Advisor(s): Jakkrit Sangkhamanee

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The refugee situation in Thailand has lasted for 30 years in a protracted situation. An encampment policy has been employed by the Thai state to deal with this protracted issue. In refugee camps in Thailand, special regulations related to security policies, such as restriction of movement and employment, have been enforced for displaced persons from Myanmar living in the camps. Under these conditions, displaced persons have turned into passive actors waiting for humanitarian assistance. Based on qualitative methods including semi-structured interviews and in-depth interviews with key informants, and non-participant observation for data collection in Mae La refugee camp and in Mae Sot District, located in Tak province, this thesis examines how displaced persons from Myanmar in refugee camp can be considered strategic agents through studying identification documents used in refugee camps and border towns. The thesis aims to see how displaced persons engage themselves with the regime of identification in the context of refugee camps and border towns in Thailand in order to access to assistances, better rights, and protection. The three concepts of &ldquo ; State of Exception&rdquo ; , &ldquo ; Governmentality&rdquo ; and &ldquo ; Technology of power&rdquo ; have been used to describe the regime of identification in refugee camps and border towns. State of exception is used to explain how refugee camps and border towns are exceptional spaces. The terms &ldquo ; Governmentality&rdquo ; and &ldquo ; Technology of power&rdquo ; are used to explain how the Thai state and humanitarian agencies used identification documents to identify and verify displaced persons for the purposes of management and regulation. This thesis illustrates that displaced persons in Mae La refugee camp have learnt how to live and use identification documents to access humanitarian assistance and protection. In addition, this study finds that characteristics of Mae Sot District lead displaced persons to use various kinds of identification documents to negotiate rights to work, education and citizenship. Identification documents are thus not a technology of power to control displaced persons. Rather, they are reversed by displaced persons to seek better opportunities. Displaced persons should not be seen as passive actors, but rather strategic actors who have learnt how to negotiate with controlled power for better assistance, rights, and protection.

Labour migration, human security and migration impacts in rural Cambodia : case study in Kampong Thom Province

Title: Labour migration, human security and migration impacts in rural Cambodia : case study in Kampong Thom Province

Author: Yan Chun Lim

Year: 2014

Keywords: CAMBODIA / LABOUR MIGRATION / HUMAN SECURITY

Theme: Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Supang Chantavanich

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: In recent years, academic and the non-governmental organizations have urged the Cambodian Government to provide migrants with information to inform their decisions better. Yet, such needed information have not been empirically researched. Through a field-based survey, this paper seeks to develop rich and illustrative accounts of why rural Cambodians migrate, the options they have, how they decide on which option to take and the implications of such decision-making. This study found that labour migration in rural Cambodia is primarily motivated by economic factors, with most migrants aspiring to migrate for work to earn more income, so as to return back to their “homeland” with more economic resources. This study also found that labour migrants not only have to choose the geographical locality to migrate to, they also have to choose the types of job and whether to migrate legally or illegally. Even within the same locality, the legal status and the nature of jobs have significant implications on the migration outcomes. Also, this paper found that migration outcomes are often determined by factors that are beyond the control of the migrant, but rather are dependent on the employer and middlemen engaged. Instead, what a migrant can control is how he or she collects information and make decisions that minimizes risks and focuses on attaining their migrant aspirations. This paper found that those who react to migration information critically, based their decisions on lessons learnt from past migration episodes, and are informed by a longer-term strategy, tend to be more successful in attaining their desired migration aspirations

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

Protection of trafficked Khmu girls from Lao PDR : Cases of pre-reintegration process and human security in Thailand

Title: Protection of trafficked Khmu girls from Lao PDR : Cases of pre-reintegration process and human security in Thailand

Author: Vongsa Chayavong

Year: 2014

Keywords: LAO PDR / FORCED MIGRATION / GENDER / ETHNICITY / HUMAN, TRAFFICKING / TRANSBORDERS

Theme: Social Welfare

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

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This study discusses the issue of human trafficking, which focuses on Khmu girls who are trafficked into Thailand. It explores what mechanisms of protection are offered to Khmu victims of human trafficking to reach an approach of sustainable reintegration into their places of origin in order to ensure their human security. There are many Khmu girls from Luang Namtha, the northern poorest province in Laos, who move to Thailand to seek new opportunities. In 2014, there are 150 Khmu girls who are victims of human trafficking in shelter in Thailand. The objectives of this study are: 1) to study protection and prosecution of Khmu girls who are victims of human trafficking, especially the victim’s identification process; 2) to examine protection mechanisms leading to sustainable reintegration, which focus on adult literacy and vocational training programs; and 3) to study prospects of social and economic reintegration of Khmu girl victims of human trafficking. This study bases on data collected through qualitative research methods from primary and secondary sources, in-depth interviews with trafficked Khmu girls and participant observation for pre- reintegration in the shelter. It was found that case studies comprise of both sex and labor trafficked victims. They were rescued from the workplaces and transferred to shelter after they identified. All victims were protected in prosecution process and they were informed of the rights of victims, including rights to compensation and access to interpreter. In the shelter, they had a chance to participate in pre-reintegration program, both language and vocational training, which were supposed to enable their sustainable livelihood when they return to Laos. Considering victim’s security while they were in shelter, they had adequate access to food provided by shelter. Also the vegetables were grown by victims themselves. They also had access to healthcare, both physical and psychological, but other aspects of human security were not examined due to limitation of time

Protection of child soldier's rights in armed conflicts in Myanmar

Title: Protection of child soldier's rights in armed conflicts in Myanmar

Author: Ni Ni Win

Year: 2014

Keywords: CHILD SOLDIERS, ETHNIC ARMED CONFLICTS, CHILD RIGHTS, DUTY, BEARERS, DISARMENMENT, DEMOBILIZATION, REINTEGRATION

Theme: Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Supang Chantavanich

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This research explores the reasons why the State Party faces challenges in respecting and protecting the rights of child soldiers in Myanmar. It also identifies the root causes of underage recruitment and its violation of child rights, and emphasizes the actions duty bearers should take to protect children's rights. Finally, it analyzes the challenges of implementing disarmament, demobilization and reintegration programs to provide economic and social services for child soldiers. The methodology of research is a qualitative approach of key informants and in-depth interviews with a concerned range of key stakeholders and child soldiers with review and research based on available secondary data. Research findings indicate that ethnic armed conflict, lack of education opportunities, poverty, and unemployment are root causes that draw children to become child soldiers. Most cases examined were recruited into the army at age 15. Recruitment methods include force or coercion, voluntary recruitment for their ethnic identity, and persuasion or attraction with incentives by law enforcers and civilian brokers. In the army, child soldiers experienced various violations, ranging from being assigned to the front line of battle, hard work in the battle field, impunity, and severe injury by fighting. After recruitment, most of those from Myanmar's National Army, Tatmadaw, received USD 500 for reintegration. When comparing what they have experienced against Articles 4, 19, 24, 27, 28, 32, 35, 36, 37, 38 and 39 to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), many of the rights were violated, especially Article 38 which indicates that "children under 15 should not be forced or recruited to take part in a war or join the armed force" (CRC, 1989). Duty bearers, who are supposed to protect children in this case, are the Myanmar Government (including the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Social Welfare) and the Kachin Independence Army, civil society organizations, parents, and community. It was found that duty bearers exercised limited roles and responsibilities on the child soldier issue due to weak child protection mechanisms in place and challenges in implementing disarmament, demobilization and reintegration programs to improve socio-economic opportunities for ex-child soldiers transitioning from military to civilian lives