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.
Schulz, K. (2012) An Assessment of the Effectiveness of Protection Mechanisms for Migrant Fishermen from Myanmar in Thailand: A Case Study from Samut Sakhon Province
Title: An Assessment of the Effectiveness of Protection Mechanisms for Migrant Fishermen from Myanmar in Thailand: A Case Study from Samut Sakhon Province
Author: Kelly Glenn Schulz
Year: 2012
Keywords: HUMAN TRAFFICKING / LABOR EXPLOITATION / HUMAN SECURITY / MIGRATION / MIGRANT WORKERS / FISHERMEN / MYANMAR
Download PDF of Abstract: English Thai
Abstract:
The issue of trafficking in persons for the purposes of labor exploitation is growing phenomenon amongst migrant workers from Myanmar who are working in Thailand's commercial fishing industry. Along with the development of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the opening up of cross-border trade and work flows, this problem can only be expected to continue grow so long as the root causes remain unaddressed.
Attempts have been made in order to understand the methods by which this form of human trafficking and exploitation takes place. However, little research has been done to understand the structural system of protection mechanisms that have been put in place to try and prevent these violations of human rights and security from occurring in the first place. This thesis project examines the various government and community-based protection mechanisms in Thailand by determining which mechanisms are most successful in upholding the fundamental labor and human rights of these migrant fishermen and which ones are in greatest need of correction.
This research project was able to uncover several new findings that shed light onto the specific situation of migrant fishermen in Samut Sakhon and the nature of the system of mechanisms that are available for their protection. It was found that the twenty-one migrant fishermen interviewed in this study faced human rights abuses and labor violations such as: not receiving the full payment of their wages, being physically and mentally abused through the use of threats as well as violence from their boat captains and employers, prevented from receiving access to medical treatment or to an appropriate compensation for that treatment, not being allowed to leave the fishing boats, being restricted to move around while on land, and being caught in situations of illegal debt bondage. A special case study of a lone migrant fisherman is used in order to reveal how the simple awareness of one's rights as a migrant worker in Thailand can lead to many years of successful protection from this kind of labor exploitation.
In addition, this paper also analyzes the perspectives of representatives from the Royal Thai Government, fishery associations, as well as from local NGOs and community-based organizations in order to determine the strengths and weaknesses of their provided protection mechanisms.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BANGKOK CAMBODIA CASE STUDY CHIN CIVIL SOCIETY COASTAL GOVERNANCE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FISHERIES CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DECENTRALIZATION DESECURITIZATION DEVELOPMENT DOMESTIC WORKERS EX-KMT REFUGEES FRONTIER GOVERNANCE FACTORS HUMAN RIGHTS HUMAN SECURITY HUMAN TRAFFICKING IMPLEMENTATION INDONESIA INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL-TRANSFORMATION LIVELIHOOD MALAYSIA MIGRATION MYANMAR NETWORK THEORY NORTHERN THAILAND POST COLD WAR ASIA POVERTY REDUCTION REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE RIGHTS-BASED APPROACH SEASONAL LABOUR MIGRATION SECURITIZATION SOCIAL MOVEMENT SPEECH ACT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI BERRY PICKERS THAILAND THAINESS TONLE SAP LAK UDD
Hata, M. (2012) Comparing the Economic and Social Security of Franchise Street Vendors and Independent Street Vendors: Case Study of Klong Toei Community in Bangkok
Title: Comparing the Economic and Social Security of Franchise Street Vendors and Independent Street Vendors: Case Study of Klong Toei Community in Bangkok
Author: Megumi Hata
Year: 2012
Keywords: STREET VENDOR, THAILAND, ECONOMIC SECURITY, SOCIAL SECURITY
Download PDF of Abstract: English Thai
Abstract:
Informal economy workers suffer from a lack of social protection. However, most of independent street vendors in Thailand work informally with little social protection. Number of franchise enterprise businesses on the street is increasing and may indicate good opportunities for independent street vendor to convert themselves into the franchise street vendors due to similar nature of their work. This research attempts to answer the following questions: Why does independent street work as an independent street vendor? Which is the better choice between being an independent street vendor or franchise street vendor in the aspects of economic and social security? In order to investigate these issues further, this research conducts comparative study between franchise street vendors and independent street vendors. In this case study, two franchise enterprises were selected: 5 Dao (Ha Dao, Five Star Grilled Chicken) and Chay 4 (Chay See, Chaysee Bamee Kieaw Thai Noodle). The researcher also analyzed independent street vendors with the same category of the food and the size of the food stall with franchise vendors. It was discovered independent street vendors are confident in owning their own businesses while franchise street vendors believe they will earn higher income than independent street vendors. In regards to the economic security aspect, franc street vendors work less but earn more. For the social security aspect, both independent street vendors and franchise street vendors experienced the same conditions even though independent street vendors were more aware of it.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BANGKOK CAMBODIA CASE STUDY CHIN CIVIL SOCIETY COASTAL GOVERNANCE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FISHERIES CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DECENTRALIZATION DESECURITIZATION DEVELOPMENT DOMESTIC WORKERS EX-KMT REFUGEES FRONTIER GOVERNANCE FACTORS HUMAN RIGHTS HUMAN SECURITY HUMAN TRAFFICKING IMPLEMENTATION INDONESIA INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL-TRANSFORMATION LIVELIHOOD MALAYSIA MIGRATION MYANMAR NETWORK THEORY NORTHERN THAILAND POST COLD WAR ASIA POVERTY REDUCTION REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE RIGHTS-BASED APPROACH SEASONAL LABOUR MIGRATION SECURITIZATION SOCIAL MOVEMENT SPEECH ACT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI BERRY PICKERS THAILAND THAINESS TONLE SAP LAK UDD
Windrasduhita, R. (2012) Human Security of Indonesian Domestic Workers in Malaysia
Title: Human Security of Indonesian Domestic Workers in Malaysia
Author: Raden Rara Intan Windrasduhita
Year: 2012
Keywords: HUMAN SECURITY / MIGRATION / DOMESTIC WORKERS / INDONESIA / MALAYSIA
Download PDF of Abstract: English Thai
Abstract:
The research finds out the link between human security and migration through the lived experience of Indonesian domestic workers (IDWs) from recruitment to settlement in Malaysia. Objectives of the research are to identify the potential threats of human security among IDWs, to analyze the respond of IDWs to such threat, and to evaluate the legal mechanisms applicable to protect them. It uses qualitative methods to gather information from key informants with semi-structured and in-depth interviews. Different perspectives on the study from government officials, NGOs, private legal recruitment agency, and IDWs are analyzed and evaluated. The research findings reveal that international migration between Indonesia and Malaysia has become a complex and complicated phenomenon. Potential human security threats certainly are in place from personal security, economic security, food and health security, and lastly political security. The legal mechanisms have not effectively benefitted IDWs due to the fact that Indonesia and Malaysia have ignored the actual steps to protect IDWs unconditionally. The processes from recruitment to placement for these IDWs have displayed a set of problems. There is obvious lack of monitoring and reporting throughout the whole process from both sending and receiving countries. Moreover, employers' or recruitment agencies' stereotypical treatments on IDWs are based on the latter's vulnerability and category as low skilled workers. Therefore, gender based violence and human rights violations have often occurred. Troubled IDWs in Malaysia experienced labor cases (i.e. unpaid or underpaid wages, emotional abuse, and unlimited working hours) and non-labor cases (i.e. persecution and torture, rape and sexual harassment, trafficking and smuggling).
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BANGKOK CAMBODIA CASE STUDY CHIN CIVIL SOCIETY COASTAL GOVERNANCE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FISHERIES CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DECENTRALIZATION DESECURITIZATION DEVELOPMENT EX-KMT REFUGEES FRONTIER GOVERNANCE FACTORS HUMAN RIGHTS HUMAN SECURITY HUMAN TRAFFICKING ICM IMPLEMENTATION INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL-TRANSFORMATION LIVELIHOOD MIGRATION MYANMAR NETWORK THEORY NORTHERN THAILAND POST COLD WAR ASIA POVERTY REDUCTION REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE RIGHTS-BASED APPROACH SEASONAL LABOUR MIGRATION SECURITIZATION SOCIAL MOVEMENT SPEECH ACT SUSTAINABLE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI BERRY PICKERS THAILAND THAINESS TONLE SAP LAK UDD UNITY
Hein, S. (2012) Food Security in Dry Zone Area: A Case of Magway, Myanmar
Title: Food Security in Dry Zone Area: A Case of Magway, Myanmar
Author: Sai Hein
Year: 2012
Keywords: FOOD SECURITY/ DRY ZONE/ MYANMAR
Download PDF of Abstract: English Thai
Abstract:
This paper is to study food security of Magway City and its nearby areas from Dry Zone of Myanmar. Dry Zone of Myanmar (Burma) is from very central part of the country and consists of three Regions -Magway, Mandalay and lower part of Sagaing.
The area was affected by a series of consecutive years of drought. Irregular and scarce rainfall happening continuously in last decade leads to extreme water shortages and it is under a constant threat to the viability of rural livelihoods. In general, dry zone area is included in one of the most food insecure areas of Myanmar and one of the most food insecure areas in the South East Asian region too, with the poor agricultural yields.
This paper emphasis is on Magway city and its nearby areas. Qualitative research method with in depth interviews to the villagers, field observations, and interviews with people who have been participating in food security programme were used for the collection of data. The findings in accordance with the five programmatic action areas reveals that there is no strong sense of food security in the studied areas. The "water management" and "access to credit" areas of Dry Zone Action Plan are the most important factors influence the food security of the dry zone in general. There are a lot of locations which do not have aids programs too. It would be interesting to do further studies in the Dry Zone as a whole in the future.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BANGKOK CAMBODIA CASE STUDY CHIN CIVIL SOCIETY COASTAL GOVERNANCE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FISHERIES CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DECENTRALIZATION DESECURITIZATION DEVELOPMENT EX-KMT REFUGEES FRONTIER GOVERNANCE FACTORS HUMAN RIGHTS HUMAN SECURITY HUMAN TRAFFICKING ICM IMPLEMENTATION INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL-TRANSFORMATION LIVELIHOOD MIGRATION MYANMAR NETWORK THEORY NORTHERN THAILAND POST COLD WAR ASIA POVERTY REDUCTION REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE RIGHTS-BASED APPROACH SEASONAL LABOUR MIGRATION SECURITIZATION SOCIAL MOVEMENT SPEECH ACT SUSTAINABLE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI BERRY PICKERS THAILAND THAINESS TONLE SAP LAK UDD UNITY
Un, B. (2011) Impact of Cambodian Decentralization Policy in Fishery Management on Human Security of Fishers Around the Tonle Sap Lake
Title: Impact of Cambodian Decentralization Policy in Fishery Management on Human Security of Fishers Around the Tonle Sap Lake
Author: Borin Un
Year: 2011
Keywords: CAMBODIA/ TONLE SAP LAK/DECENTRALIZATION/ HUMAN SECURITY/ COMMUNITY FISHERIES
Download PDF of Abstract: English Thai
Abstract:
Tonle Sap Lake (TSL) is the largest permanent freshwater body in Southeast Asia and among the most productive freshwater ecosystems in the world. Fisheries from TSL directly support more than one million people around the lake and provide the single largest source of protein for Cambodia's population.
The study investigates whether decentralization in fishery management in Cambodia around the TSL and the establishment of community fisheries (CFs) has strengthened local communities' economic and food security. Three communities in Battambang Province with differing degrees of success in establishing a CF were examined to conduct a comparative analysis, namely: Prek Trob, where a successful CF has been established; Doun Try where an unsuccessful CF has been established; and Kbal Taol where the community has yet to create a CF. The study's conceptual framework differentiates decentralization into: deconcentration, whereby central government delegates power and responsibility to lower government institutions; and democratic decentralization whereby power and responsibility are transferred to local communities.
The study finds that democratic decentralization has not yet fully granted the communities with the necessary powers, resource use rights and autonomy in decision-making to develop and manage the fishery resources in their community. At the same time, deconcentration has not totally created responsive and accountable authorities. As a result, Cambodia's decentralization policy in fishery management has not yet proved to strengthen the economic and food security of local fishers around TSL.
To remedy the gaps of Cambodia's decentralization policy in fishery management, further deconcentration and democratic decentralization in fisheries management must be in place. There must also be more effective enforcement of existing fishery laws through both education and policing, including: addressing corruption in the fisheries sector; taking action against illegal fishers; and halting destruction of fish habitats. Meanwhile, a greater role and incentives should also be given to Commune Councils to engage and partner with local communities in the management and conservation of fisheries resources.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BIOPOWER CASE STUDY CHIN CIVIL SOCIETY COASTAL GOVERNANCE COMMUNITY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DEMOCRATIZATION DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION EUROPEAN UNION EX-KMT REFUGEES FRONTIER GOOD GOVERNANCE GOVERNANCE FACTORS HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE HUMAN SECURITY HUMAN TRAFFICKING ICM IMPLEMENTATION INDONESIA INSTITUTIONS INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL-TRANSFORMATION LIVELIHOOD MIGRATION MYANMAR NETWORK THEORY NGO NORTHERN THAILAND POST COLD WAR ASIA REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE RIGHTS-BASED APPROACH SEASONAL LABOUR MIGRATION SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL MOVEMENT SUSTAINABLE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI-KAREN PEOPLE THAI BERRY PICKERS THAILAND WORK OPPORTUNITIES WORLD SOCIAL FORUM
Finnegan, J. (2011) The Lives, Working Conditions and Insecurities of Frontier Workers Between Cambodia and Thailand at the Poipet-Aranyaprathet Border Crossing
Title: The Lives, Working Conditions and Insecurities of Frontier Workers Between Cambodia and Thailand at the Poipet-Aranyaprathet Border Crossing
Author: Jennifer Maureen Finnegan
Year: 2011
Keywords: HUMAN SECURITY/MIGRATION/NETWORK THEORY/FRONTIER/CASE STUDY
Download PDF of Abstract: English Thai
Abstract:
There are hundreds of men, women and children employed to transport commercial goods between Thailand and Cambodia. Through qualitative research, social mapping, and network theory we try to develop a better understanding of this complex livelihood. This case study paints a picture of Poipet's cart pullers and porters and the labour practices and the short-term cross-border migration situation of frontier workers. The research examines their reality and frames their situation in terms of personal and economic security, migration and labour protection mechanisms for cart pullers and porters. This research couples an overview of a complex socio-economic picture with the first-hand experiences and daily challenges that cart pullers and porters face at this bustling economic corridor.
Key findings from this study indicate that cart pullers and porters of all ages, including children, youth and adults represent a migrant community living in Poipet that experience vulnerabilities related to personal and economic security. Research conclusions illustrate the personal and economic insecurity issues are due to a complex situation linked to belonging to a high migrant population with limited social networks and support, and working within the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) between Thailand and Cambodia. Current bilateral and regional agreements promote manual cross-border labour, but this informal labour lacks regulation and labour protection mechanisms. Practical solutions are needed to address personal and economic insecurities and improve the lives of child, youth and adult cart pullers and porters working at the frontier.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BIOPOWER CHIN CIVIL SOCIETY COASTAL GOVERNANCE COMMUNITY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DEMOCRATIZATION DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION EUROPEAN UNION EX-KMT REFUGEES GOOD GOVERNANCE GOVERNANCE FACTORS HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE HUMAN SECURITY HUMAN TRAFFICKING ICM IMPLEMENTATION INDONESIA INSTITUTIONS INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL-TRANSFORMATION KHMER ROUGE LIVELIHOOD MIGRATION MYANMAR NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT NGO NORTHERN THAILAND PARTICIPATORY MANGROVE FORESTRY POST COLD WAR ASIA REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE RIGHTS-BASED APPROACH SEASONAL LABOUR MIGRATION SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL MOVEMENT SUSTAINABLE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI-KAREN PEOPLE THAI BERRY PICKERS THAILAND WORK OPPORTUNITIES WORLD SOCIAL FORUM
Kallstrom, J. (2011) Transnational Seasonal Labour Migration and Development: Lives of Thai Berry Picker Returnees from Sweden
Title: Transnational Seasonal Labour Migration and Development: Lives of Thai Berry Picker Returnees from Sweden
Author: Julia Kamoltip Kallstrom
Year: 2011
Keywords: SEASONAL LABOUR MIGRATION, THAI BERRY PICKERS, DEVELOPMENT
Download PDF of Abstract: English Thai
Abstract:
Previous research has acknowledged that labour migration have had huge benefits for both receiving and sending countries of migrant workers. Thai migrants seasonally traveling to Sweden to pick wild berries have been an ongoing trend since the past two decades. Simultaneously there has been a drastic decline of Swedish labour in the wild berry picking industry. Since the year 2000 there has been an increasing number of Thai berry pickers; in particular rural people from the North-east parts of Thailand. It has been recognized that migration and development are interdependent processes which profoundly influences one another, where migration policies nowadays are developed to take on a development approach.
This qualitative research examines the relationship between transnational seasonal labour migration of berry picking in Sweden and the development of the Thai farmer's living standards in terms of social and economic conditions, and employment. This research contribute with knowledge about Thai migrant berry pickers and fill the existing gap of research made on Thai migrant berry pickers in relation to international labour migration and development. The study seeks to make recommendations on how the seasonal migration of berry picking should be managed and facilitated by the Thai and Swedish Authorities to have a positive outcome. This study is focused on Thai migrant berry pickers from the province of Phetchabun in the sub district of Bueng Krachap and is based on migrant berry pickers who have travelled to Sweden annually. The study presents a unique community of Thai migrant berry pickers who have managed to obtain an income to their distinct measured up to almost 12 million baht per berry season. Interviews with five governmental officials and two organizational representatives and focus group interviews with sixteen migrant berry pickers were the primary source of the data collection. The findings from interviews concluded that the seasonal migration of berry picking have contributed with positive to the Thai migrants living standards in terms of becoming a valuable source of employment and income, acting as an economic security in terms of bad harvest and environmental destruction and nurturing social relationships between migrant berry pickers and their family members.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BIOPOWER CHIN CIVIL SOCIETY COASTAL GOVERNANCE COMMUNITY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DEMOCRATIZATION DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION EUROPEAN UNION EX-KMT REFUGEES GOOD GOVERNANCE GOVERNANCE FACTORS HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE HUMAN SECURITY HUMAN TRAFFICKING ICM IMPLEMENTATION INDONESIA INSTITUTIONS INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT INTERNATIONAL-TRANSFORMATION KHMER ROUGE LIVELIHOOD MIGRATION MYANMAR NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT NGO NORTHERN THAILAND OTOP PARTICIPATORY MANGROVE FORESTRY POST COLD WAR ASIA REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE RIGHTS-BASED APPROACH SHADOW STATE POLITICS SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL MOVEMENT SUSTAINABLE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI-KAREN PEOPLE THAILAND WORK OPPORTUNITIES WORLD SOCIAL FORUM
Tong, L. (2011) The Ex-KMT Refugees in Northern Thailand in the Age of International Political Transformation of Post Cold War Asia
Title: The Ex-KMT Refugees in Northern Thailand in the Age of International Political Transformation of Post Cold War Asia
Author: Lei Tong
Year: 2011
Keywords: EX-KMT REFUGEES/ INTERNATIONAL-TRANSFORMATION / POST COLD WAR ASIA / NORTHERN THAILAND/ HUMAN SECURITY
Download PDF of Abstract: English Thai
Abstract:
The KMT refugees in northern Thailand derived from the KMT armies' remnants upon retreated from mainland China to Burma in 1949. Labeled as 'civilian refugees' on their arrival in Thailand by the Thai government, they were encouraged to participate in the Thais' own war on communism until the 1980's. In reward for subduing the communist problem, some of them were granted Thai citizenship, while others remained stateless. From the perspective of international politics, the Cold War in Asia ended earlier than its counterpart in Europe due to the strategic rise of the People's Republic of China and the ensuing adjustment of the U.S's political strategies in Asia. A transformation in terms of the international-political system and structure of Asia from the 1970's onwards has shaped the human security fate of the target groups. The ex-KMTs in northern Thailand gradually lost their strategic importance in the 'grand chessboard' of all interested parties. However, the KMT refugees exist as more than mere "victims' of the transformation. They struggle for resettlement in Thailand or return to Taiwan, and also strive to improve their human security status through advocacy initiatives with relevant parties and communal governance. Different coping strategies have led to diverse effects on the human security status of the target groups. The spontaneous and non-structural coping strategies have been greatly insufficient to protect the target groups from diverse but interrelated human security threats. The thesis depends primarily on documentary research. Fieldwork research at two villages, Mae Salong and Santisuk, also contributes to understanding the limitations and contributions of the target groups' coping strategies as well as their human security status in the four major dimensions of community, economic, and education, and nationality security.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BIOPOWER CHIN CIVIL SOCIETY COASTAL GOVERNANCE COMMUNITY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY CURRENT EDUCATION IN THE CAMP DEMOCRATIZATION DEVELOPMENT DISCOURSE EDUCATION EUROPEAN UNION GOOD GOVERNANCE GOVERNANCE FACTORS HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE HUMAN TRAFFICKING ICM IMPLEMENTATION INDONESIA INSTITUTIONS INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT KAREN REFUGEES KHMER ROUGE LIVELIHOOD MIGRATION MYANMAR NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT NGO OTOP PARTICIPATORY MANGROVE FORESTRY REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE RIGHTS-BASED APPROACH SHADOW STATE POLITICS SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL MOVEMENT SUSTAINABLE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI-BURMA BORDER THAI-KAREN PEOPLE THAILAND THAKSIN SHINAWATRA WORK OPPORTUNITIES WORLD SOCIAL FORUM
Pan, S. (2010) Sustainability and Outreach of a Kachin Church Microfinance Institution in Burma
Title: Sustainability and Outreach of a Kachin Church Microfinance Institution in Burma
Author: Seng Nu Pan
Year: 2010
Keywords: MICROFINANCE, SUSTAINABILITY/OUTREACH/SOCIAL CAPITAL
Download PDF of Abstract: English Thai
Abstract:
There is increasing interest in Muhammad Yunus's Grameen Bank microfinance model as a means of addressing the needs of Burma's poverty, but there have been no studies of locally led micro-finance institutions (MFIs) in Burma. This study assesses the sustainability and outreach of a church-run microfinance institution in northern Burma bringing to the fore borrowers' perspectives on impacts by examining the tensions between sustainability and outreach, and the influence of church social capital.
The credit union is operationally sustainable but it is not financially sustainable due to poor management, weak organizational structure, inappropriate loan methodology, imperfect information, borrower deception, Kachin cultural values about small income-generating activities, and the broader political and economic environment in Burma. The study finds that the credit union faces a trade-off between sustainability and its outreach to the poor. It attains only 30% repayment rates as most borrowers, particularly the poor often use their loans for consumption rather than generation incomes leaving them entrenched in debt rather than helping them escape from poverty.
The role of church social capital in sustainability and outreach is complex as it can facilitate outreach and compromise repayment rates. Yet despite its imperfections, the credit union does help alleviate the poverty of some church members by allowing them to develop human capital and financing micro-enterprises. Church members consider it the best provider of financial services in their locale.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BIOPOWER CIVIL SOCIETY COASTAL GOVERNANCE COMMUNITY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY COUNTRY RECONSTRUCTURE CURRENT EDUCATION IN THE CAMP DEMOCRACY IN BURMA DEMOCRATIZATION DEVELOPMENT DISCOURSE EDUCATION EUROPEAN UNION GOOD GOVERNANCE GOVERNANCE FACTORS HIGHER EDUCATION HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE ICM INDONESIA INSTITUTIONS INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT KAREN REFUGEES KHMER ROUGE LIVELIHOOD MIGRATION MYANMAR NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT NGO OTOP PARTICIPATORY MANGROVE FORESTRY REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE SHADOW STATE POLITICS SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL MOVEMENT SUSTAINABLE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI-BURMA BORDER THAI-KAREN PEOPLE THAI FEMALE THAILAND THAKSIN SHINAWATRA WORK OPPORTUNITIES WORLD SOCIAL FORUM
Es, M. (2009) Trust Building Through Army Development Initiatives In Conflict Situations: The Case of Yalannanbaru in Southern Border Provinces of Thailand
Title: Trust Building Through Army Development Initiatives In Conflict Situations: The Case of Yalannanbaru in Southern Border Provinces of Thailand
Author: Martine Van Es
Year: 2009
Keywords: CONFLICT / SOUTH THAILAND / TRUST BUILDING /DEVELOPMENT
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Abstract:
This study focuses on the Yalannanbaru program run by the Thai army in the southern border provinces of Thailand in order to examine whether the project contributes to obtain trust from the local people. In so doing, this thesis introduces theories on trust and distrust to the conflict situation and development initiatives run by the Thai army. The study utilizes an in-depth single-case study on the Yalannanbaru program; a drugs re-education camp for youth in the southern border provinces. In the course of analysis, the notion of separate dimensions of trust and distrust is applied, acknowledging the multifaceted character of many relations and the possible coexistence of trust and distrust in a relationship. In addition, the theory of calibration of trust and distrust is introduced in order to examine how the discrepancy between expectations and outcomes of army development initiatives can influence participants' attitudes.
The study revealed that through various processes, the program has been able to change levels of interpersonal trust and distrust between the participating youth and the army officers directly involved. However, the potential to address intergroup trust and distrust through the program is currently very limited; the existing distrust in society is a strong restraint on any trust building process. From the study, the thesis concludes that trust building through development initiatives by the Thai army like Yalannanbaru requires more careful analysis on relation and trust building with thorough understanding of wider conflict dynamics. Without focusing on resolution by tackling the root causes of the conflict, army development programs have little potential to contribute to improving the situation in the southern border provinces.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BIOPOWER CIVIL SOCIETY COASTAL GOVERNANCE COMMUNITY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY COUNTRY RECONSTRUCTURE CURRENT EDUCATION IN THE CAMP DEMOCRACY IN BURMA DEMOCRATIZATION DISCOURSE EDUCATION EUROPEAN UNION GOOD GOVERNANCE GOVERNANCE FACTORS HIGHER EDUCATION HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE ICM INDONESIA INSTITUTIONS INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT KAREN REFUGEES KHMER ROUGE LIVELIHOOD MIGRATION MYANMAR NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT NGO OTOP PARTICIPATORY MANGROVE FORESTRY REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE SHADOW STATE POLITICS SMES SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL MOVEMENT SUSTAINABLE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI-BURMA BORDER THAI-KAREN PEOPLE THAI FEMALE THAILAND THAKSIN SHINAWATRA WORK OPPORTUNITIES WORLD SOCIAL FORUM
Kalina, M. (2008) Building for the Future: A Framework for Sustainable Road Construction in Lao PDR
Title: Building for the Future: A Framework for Sustainable Road Construction in Lao PDR
Author: Marc Kalina
Year: 2008
Keywords: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT/ INFRASTRUCTURE/ ROAD CONSTRUCTION/ LAO PDR/ GREATER MEKONG SUB-REGION/ ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK
Download PDF of Abstract: English Thai
Abstract:The purpose of this study is to propose a framework for sustainable infrastructure development in the Greater Mekong Subregion, learning from the experience of road construction in Lao PDR. The main research question is to discover what knowledge can we glean from past infrastructure development in the Greater Mekong Subregion and Lao PDR which would facilitate the creation of a more sustainable development model. The information used in this study was gathered through extensive literature research in addition to interviews with key actors involved with the construction and monitoring of Highway 9 in Southern Lao PDR.
Analysis of both infrastructure and sustainable development reaffinns the value of infrastructure towards the improvement of human welfare, yet points out its deficiencies, notably its strain on the natural environment. Furthermore, the concept of sustainable development, with a definition that focuses on maintenance of the natural capital stock, is explored, which appears to be an attractive path towards mitigating infrastructures harmful side-effects. Additionally, the case study of road construction in Southern Lao PDR illustrates the environmental impacts of this development, with a focus on specific deficiencies within the construction process.
Based on both the literature analysis and case study a framework for sustainable infrastructure development is presented. This framework focuses on the four dimensions of a project, as observed in the case study: Sound planning, sound implementation, effective monitoring, and accountability. Recommendations are presented which would introduce the maxim of sustainable development to each development phase. Examples of these recommendations include: Environmental valuation and cost-benefits analyses in the assessment and planning stage, increased monitoring by governmental regulatory agencies, and a transparent bidding process to counter corruption.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BIOPOWER CERTIFICATE TRANSLATION TO MARKET ECONOMY COMMUNITY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY COUNTRY RECONSTRUCTURE CURRENT EDUCATION IN THE CAMP DEMOCRACY IN BURMA DEMOCRATIZATION DISCOURSE EDUCATION EUROPEAN UNION GOOD GOVERNANCE HIGHER EDUCATION HOCHIMINH CITY HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE ISSURANCE OF BUSINESS REGISTRATION KAREN REFUGEES KHMER ROUGE LIVELIHOOD MIGRATION MYANMAR NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT NGO OTOP PARTICIPATORY MANGROVE FORESTRY POLICY IMPLEMENTATION REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE SENSITIVE SERVICES SHADOW STATE POLITICS SMES SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL EVILS SOCIAL MOVEMENT STREET-LEVEL BUREAUCRAT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI-BURMA BORDER THAI-KAREN PEOPLE THAI FEMALE THAILAND THAKSIN SHINAWATRA WORK OPPORTUNITIES WORLD BANK REFORMS WORLD SOCIAL FORUM
Min, S. (2008) Role of Religious Organizations in Development Assistance: A Case Study of Ban Takula in Suan Phung District, Ratchaburi Province
Title: Role of Religious Organizations in Development Assistance: A Case Study of Ban Takula in Suan Phung District, Ratchaburi Province
Author: Saw Aye Min
Year: 2008
Keywords: RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS/ DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE/ SUSTAINBILITY/ IMMIGRANT KAREN/ TAKULA VILLAGE/ RATCHABURI PROVINCE/ THAILAND
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Abstract:
The ethnic Karen had been living along Burma and Thailand border areas where the demarcation between the two countries has been porous to date. The Karen people in the borderlands usually have their relatives on both sides of the countries. Thus, it is normal that they are used to traveling to and from Burma to Thailand to visit their relatives. Migration of Karen people to Thailand has occurred since an unknown date.
The objectives of research are to identify the specific roles of religious organizations in development assistance for the Karen villagers in Ban Takula and to examine the sustainability of the development assistance given by different religious organization in this village. This research uses qualitative methods by relying on semi-structured in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and non-participant observations. Both primary and secondary data were used in documentary analysis. The research reviewed and analyzed the existing literature for its documentary research.
The research found out that some philanthropy, faith-based and secular organizations are helping the immigrant Karen living in Takula in Suan Phung District, Ratchaburi Province. They are Tarmaka temple, Diocesan Social Action Center of Ratchaburi (DISACR), Shwe Yin Kyaw Eiksaydaya Upper Lane Gang (Traditional Healer), Catholic Office of Emergency Relief for the Refugees (COERR), Takula Karen Baptist Church (TKBC) and Rajanagrindra Tropical Disease International Center (RTIC). Regarding the role of these civil society organizations, the research found out that they are providing several development assistances such as health, education, credit union to the villagers for their income generation to survive in their new lives.
The research concluded that the development assistance given by the above organizations is limited and inconsistent in this village. Most of the Karen immigrants at Takula have to survive their lives working in seasonal works such as plantations, gardens, maids and construction sites around the province. Despite having some job opportunities, the Karen immigrant at Takula village are so poor that they need the substantial development assistance to the sustainability of their economic life in future.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BIOPOWER CERTIFICATE TRANSLATION TO MARKET ECONOMY COMMUNITY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY COUNTRY RECONSTRUCTURE CURRENT EDUCATION IN THE CAMP DEMOCRACY IN BURMA DEMOCRATIZATION DISCOURSE EDUCATION EUROPEAN UNION GOOD GOVERNANCE HIGHER EDUCATION HOCHIMINH CITY HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE ISSURANCE OF BUSINESS REGISTRATION KAREN REFUGEES KHMER ROUGE MIGRATION MYANMAR NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT NGO OTOP PARTICIPATORY MANGROVE FORESTRY POLICY IMPLEMENTATION POVERTY REDUCTION STRATEGY PAPERS REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE SENSITIVE SERVICES SHADOW STATE POLITICS SMES SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL EVILS SOCIAL MOVEMENT STREET-LEVEL BUREAUCRAT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI-BURMA BORDER THAI-KAREN PEOPLE THAI FEMALE THAKSIN SHINAWATRA VIETNAM WORK OPPORTUNITIES WORLD BANK REFORMS WORLD SOCIAL FORUM
Von Feigenblatt, O. (2007) Japan and Human Security: Gaps of Realities
Title: Japan and Human Security: Gaps of Realities
Author: Otto Von Feigenblatt
Year: 2007
Keywords: HUMAN SECURITY/JAPANESE OFFICIAL ODA POLICY
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Abstract:
Japan's foreign policy is often described as abnormal and opportunistic due to its perceived deviation from the norm established by the ruling international relations paradigm, neo-realism. This study concentrates on one policy field of great international visibility, official development assistance. Japan's official ODA policy is taken as a representative example of its foreign policy and serves to test the impact of the rising Human Security Paradigm. This innovative paradigm has been adopted by Japan as a pillar of its foreign policy and its language is widely used in official policy documents. Due to this a discursive analysis was undertaken so as to determine the impact of the Human Security approach on Japan's Official ODA policy and consequently identify Japan's official position regarding this approach. This dissertation then tests Japan's actual ODA projects planned and implemented by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the United Nations Fund for Human Security in order to determine whether there is a gap between Japan's version of the Human Security approach and its actual policies regarding ODA. This test is not concerned with the actual results of the projects in question or with their impact on their target beneficiaries but rather with the level of coherence and consistency of Official ODA policy discourse and actual project implementation. Three main results were revealed. Regarding Japan's official position of the concept of Human Security, its position closely resembles that of the United Nations Commission for Human Security which favors a balanced view of the paradigm tackling both "freedom from fear" and "freedom from want". This approach allots equal emphasis to protection as to long term empowerment and favors a concerted effort by all major stakeholders. In summary this view lies between the Protective Human Security of some "middle powers" such as Canada and Australia and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees and the developmental Human Security of most radical non-governmental organizations and the United Nations Development Program. The second result is regarding the impact of the Human Security paradigm in Official ODA discourse. It is clear from the detailed discursive analysis undertaken that Human Security has permeated this policy area. Finally the third result deals with discursive co-optation and the forces behind the efforts to mainstream Human Security. This dissertation shows how conservative neo-realist stakeholders in Japan have identified common instrumental security goals with those of Human Security and have co-opted the use of the language of Human Security in order to further the ultimate goal of the -normalization" of Japan in a neo-realist fashion.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BIOPOWER CERTIFICATE TRANSLATION TO MARKET ECONOMY COMMUNITY COUNTRY OWNERSHIP COUNTRY RECONSTRUCTURE CURRENT EDUCATION IN THE CAMP DEMOCRACY IN BURMA DEMOCRATIZATION DISCOURSE EDUCATION EUROPEAN UNION FTA WATCH GOOD GOVERNANCE HIGHER EDUCATION HOCHIMINH CITY HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE ISSURANCE OF BUSINESS REGISTRATION KAREN REFUGEES KHMER ROUGE MIGRATION MYANMAR NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT NGO OTOP PARTICIPATORY MANGROVE FORESTRY POLICY IMPLEMENTATION POVERTY REDUCTION STRATEGY PAPERS REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE SENSITIVE SERVICES SHADOW STATE POLITICS SMES SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL EVILS STREET-LEVEL BUREAUCRAT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI-BURMA BORDER THAI-KAREN PEOPLE THAI FEMALE THAKSIN SHINAWATRA VIETNAM WORK OPPORTUNITIES WORLD BANK REFORMS WORLD SOCIAL FORUM
Rangsit, D. (2006) Implications of the One Tambon One Product Policy on Sustainable Development in Thailand
Title: Implications of the One Tambon One Product Policy on Sustainable Development in Thailand
Author: Devraj Rangsit
Year: 2006
Keywords: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, OTOP, DISCOURSE, THAKSIN SHINAWATRA
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Abstract:
The One Tambon One Product (OTOP) policy under the Thaksin government was meant to be an initiator of SD through Thailand's decentralization process, the empowerment of local communities and employment creation and income diversification within local vicinities.
The objectives of this thesis are as follows: Firstly, to clarify OTOP's conceptual implication to the notion of Sustainable Development in Thailand. Secondly, to identify the differences between the operating principles of OTOP and the Fair trade movement, and their implication towards the enabling of SD and community empowerment.
The methodologies employed are structured interviews of key informants supplanted with the assessment of data from reports and past evaluation of OTOP as part of the comparative analysis. Informants included staffs from the National Research Council of Thailand and the managerial personnel of a Fair trade organization in Thailand.
The findings are: Through the comparative analysis of OTOP's current operating principles with principles employed by the Fair trade organizations, the revenue generated through OTOP, despite of its high volume does not contribute towards the enabling of the policy's stated objectives. Implementation of OTOP lacks the disaggregate differentiation between the various types of producers involved as well as the fact that overwhelming emphasis is given to the volume of trade rather than the quality of trade conducted or the extent of the community learning process enabled.
Recommendations: In order for OTOP to be an effective instigator of sustainable economic growth and community empowerment, there is an essential need for the differentiation between the types of producers endorsed. Equally important OTOP's current strategic objective of trade maximization should be replaced with the need for increased emphasis on 'customer education' and 'ethical consumption'.
Contact MAIDS-Chula for more information and full thesis at maidschula@gmail.com
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BIOPOWER COMMUNITY DEMOCRATIZATION EDUCATION EUROPEAN UNION GOOD GOVERNANCE HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE KHMER ROUGE MYANMAR NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT NGO PARTICIPATORY MANGROVE FORESTRY REINTEGRATION RESISTANCE SHADOW STATE POLITICS SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TAK PROVINCE THAI-KAREN PEOPLE WORK OPPORTUNITIES WORLD SOCIAL FORUM