AID VOLATILITY AND DONOR REPUTATION: EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE FROM ZAMBIA

Title: AID VOLATILITY AND DONOR REPUTATION: EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE FROM ZAMBIA

Author: Lieke Snel

Year: 2025

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Post-development,Civil society and Democracy,Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Dr. Pawin, Siriprapanukul, Ph.D.

The full thesis available N/A.

Abstract: The abrupt suspension of U.S. foreign aid in 2025 has raised questions about how aid volatility shapes donor reputation and the soft power of donor states. In Zambia, a country heavily affected by the 2025 aid cuts, the subsequent announcement of a new U.S. health sector commitment created an opportunity to examine whether donor reputation can be restored following a period of aid withdrawal. This study investigates the extent to which renewed U.S. health assistance influences trust, reputation, and willingness to cooperate with the United States, as well as how different aid framings shape these perceptions. Using a randomized video vignette experiment among Zambian respondents, participants were assigned to one of three conditions: aid cuts only, aid cuts followed by a neutrally framed health commitment, or aid cuts followed by a strategically framed health commitment emphasizing U.S. interests. The findings indicate that exposure to information about the aid cuts resulted in significantly less positive evaluations of the United States. However, renewed health assistance improved donor reputation and soft power-related outcomes relative to the cuts-only condition. These positive effects were significantly weaker when assistance was framed as serving American strategic interests. The study demonstrates that aid volatility can have important reputational consequences, while also showing that renewed assistance can help rebuild trust, reputation, and willingness to cooperate when perceived as a credible commitment rather than merely as a strategic instrument.

Assessing Karen indigenous governance in Kaw Thay Ghu, Kawthoolei through the lens of the governance vitality framework

Title: Assessing Karen indigenous governance in Kaw Thay Ghu, Kawthoolei through the lens of the governance vitality framework

Author: Phapi Rakdamrongphorn

Year: 2025

Keywords: Kaw Indigenous Governance Community Conservation Indigenous Resurgence Cultural Resilience

Themes: Environmental Politics and Policy,Civil society and Democracy,Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Carl Nigel Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis examines how the traditional Karen governance institution of the Kaw sustains environmental conservation and community well-being in Kaw Thay Ghu, an Indigenous territory in Kawthoolei (Karen State, Myanmar). Situated within a conflict-affected landscape facing challenges from armed violence, displacement, and climate change, this study employs a qualitative case study approach, combining focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews with elders, leaders, and youth. The research applies the Governance Vitality Framework (GVF) to assess how the five interrelated dimensions of governance are articulated within the Kaw system: Strategic Adaptability, Connectivity and Collaboration, Wisdom from Local Experience, Creativity and Empowerment, and Inspiring Collective Values. Findings reveal that the revitalization of Indigenous practices—especially the Yaw Kaw ritual or “walking the land”—has strengthened all five dimensions of governance vitality. Yaw Kaw serves as an adaptive governance mechanism that re-engages youth in ancestral stewardship, fosters inter-village cooperation, reinforces ecological knowledge, and renews shared spiritual values. This resurgent Indigenous praxis enhances both conservation outcomes, such as the establishment of community forests and fish sanctuaries, and the broader goals of cultural resilience and Indigenous self-determination. By linking cultural revival with environmental governance, the study demonstrates that governance vitality plays an essential role in sustaining ecological integrity and community autonomy in conflict-affected Indigenous territories. The thesis contributes to academic and policy debates on Indigenous governance, conservation, and resilience, offering practical recommendations for policymakers, conservation organizations, and international allies to support Indigenous-led environmental governance and peacebuilding.This thesis examines the role of traditional Karen governance institutions, or the "Kaw" system, in maintaining environmental conservation and community well-being in Kaw Thay Ghu, an indigenous territory within the Kawthule Administrative Region (Karen State, Myanmar). This is done within the context of an area affected by conflict and facing challenges from armed violence, displacement, and climate change. The study employs a qualitative case study approach, combining focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews with elders, community leaders, and youth. The research applies the Governance Vitality (GVF) framework to assess the five interconnected dimensions of governance within the "Kaw" system: Strategic Adaptability, Connectivity and Collaboration, Wisdom from Local Experience, Creativity and Empowerment, and Inspiring Collective Values. The findings indicate that the revitalization of indigenous practices is crucial. In particular, the "Yaw Kaw" or "Boundary Walk" ritual has helped strengthen the five dimensions of Governance Vitality. "Yaw Kaw" serves as an adaptive governance mechanism that engages youth in the preservation of ancestral lands, fosters inter-village cooperation, enhances ecological knowledge, and revitalizes shared spiritual values. This indigenous resurgence has improved conservation outcomes, such as the establishment of community forests and fish sanctuaries. Including broader goals of cultural resilience and indigenous self-determination rights, this study demonstrates how linking cultural revitalization to environmental governance makes governance vital in maintaining ecological integrity and community autonomy in conflict-affected indigenous territories. This thesis contributes to academic and policy debates on indigenous governance, conservation, and resilience, and offers practical recommendations for policymakers, conservation organizations, and international partners to support indigenous-led environmental governance and peacebuilding.

Negotiating Identities: A Transformation of Thai-Muslim in the Baan Somdej Mosque Community (Bangkok)

Title: Negotiating Identities: A Transformation of Thai-Muslim in the Baan Somdej Mosque Community (Bangkok)

Author: Vinissa Kattiya-aree

Year: 2024

Keywords: Arabization, Urbanization, Islam in Thailand, Muslim Community

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Human Rights

Advisor(s): Bhanubhatra Jittiang

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Thailand is home to more than 6 million Muslims, making Thai-Muslim the largest religious minority group. Thai – Muslim communities have long been a part of Thai society, participating in all levels of society, from economics to politics. Despite much research written on the Thai Muslim population and communities, the Bangkok Muslim communities remain understudied. This research hopes to expand the existing research on Muslims in Thailand and offer an interdisciplinary explanation focusing on international development and anthropological aspects of the transformation of a Thai Muslim community. This thesis presents a case study of the Muslims of the Baan Somdej Mosque community, located in the Thonburi District of Bangkok. It aims to document the changes happening in the community, from clothing to traditions, in the hope of capturing the current stories of the community.Furthermore, this thesis also examined factors contributing to those socio-cultural changes happening within the community. The methodology for this research consists of key informant interviews, field observation, and documentary analysis. It concludes that the transformation of the Thai Muslims in the Baan Somdej Mosque Community is a result of the interplay between urbanization and Arabization, where urbanization drove the community to redefine themselves and Arabization, as a form of globalization, is out to set the standard for what it means to be “Muslim.” This interaction created new Muslim identities for the Muslims in Bangkok, Thailand

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

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

Author: Margianta Surahman Juhanda

Year: 2024

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

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Social Welfare

Advisor(s): Pitch Pongsawat

The full thesis available here.

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

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

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

Author: Anastasia Sylvia

Year: 2022

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

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies, Human Rights

Advisor(s): Vong-on Phuaphansawat

The full thesis available here.

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

Intersectionality and livelihoods of conflict-induced displaced Myanmar women in Mae Sot, Thailand

Title: Intersectionality and livelihoods of conflict-induced displaced Myanmar women in Mae Sot, Thailand

Author: Su Myat Thwe

Year: 2022

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies, Human Rights

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The Sustainable Development Goals Report (2022) highlighted the global displacement crisis as 24.5 million population impacted by conflict by mid-2021; 311 out of every 100,000 people worldwide seeking refuge outside their country of origin[1]. The cycle of migration to Thailand from Myanmar has a special history with many intersecting factors of forced migration and a new trend emerges following 1st February 2021: only 1,527 cases in 9 shelters[2]; 986,670 regularized as migrant workers in 2021[3]; tens of thousands of unrecorded. The role of Myanmar’s unsung heroines cannot go forgotten. From a sociocultural conservative country with a constitution drafted by a patriarchal institution, women have increasingly involved in the revolution either as active actors or as a rearguard while armed resistance intensifies - 44% of Myanmar regularized workers in Thailand are women when most of the job openings for women tend to be in informal sectors[4]. Due to the fast-paced development of the conflict in Myanmar, while the prolonged civil unrest or the recent events are often viewed from a traditional security lens, the subtlety of women’s role in the cross-border settlement and the elusive nature of intersectionality in non-convention party state are rarely approached from a human security perspective.This research provides a gendered intersectionality perspective on academic studies of human security in conflict-induced cross-border livelihoods while, at the same time, accentuating the resilience of women in displacement situations during conflict times amidst the elusive nature of discrimination at different levels. Through focusing on the human security of Myanmar women in Mae Sot asking how the unfulfilled aspects of human rights in country-of-origin Myanmar and prejudice towards individual identities they hold onto intersect with getting legal protection and socioeconomic standing in the host country Thailand, which livelihood assets the individuals have and in what ways the actors are ensuring such have been explored through integrative inputs from expert practitioners and community actors to introduce how transdisciplinary approach to participatory humanitarian assistance can help build the resilience of such population to achieve sustainable livelihoods. [1] UN DESA (2022). The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2022 - July 2022. New York, USA: UN DESA. © UN DESA. https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2022/[2] TBC (2021, 2022). Refugee Camp Population: January 2021 vs Refugee Camp Population: December 2022. The Border Consortium.[3] ILO. (2022). TRIANGLE in ASEAN Quarterly Briefing Note: Myanmar (July to September 2022). Bangkok: International Labour Organization.[4] Sakulsri, T. (2022). Challenges of Labor Migrants to Thailand: Issues of Bilateral Agreements for the Employment of Workers in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). Journal of Population and Social Studies

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

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

Author: Thawng Tha Lian

Year: 2016

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Development Management, Social Welfare

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

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

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

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Environmental Politics and Policy, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies

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.

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

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

Author: Kai Ling Yee

Year: 2014

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

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Development Management, Post-development

Advisor(s): Chantana Wungaeo

The full thesis available here.

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

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

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

Author: Khin San Wai

Year: 2013

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

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Human Rights, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies

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

The full thesis available here.

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

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

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

Author: Fransiskus Adrian Tarmedi

Year: 2012

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

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Development Management, Human Rights

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

The full thesis available here.

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

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

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

Author: Alan Wihlborg Andersen

Year: 2011

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

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Public Sphere and Media, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies

Advisor(s): Soravis Jayanama

The full thesis available here.

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

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

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

Author: Sophia

Year: 2011

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Development Management, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies

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

The full thesis available here.

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

Role of religious organizations in development assitance : a case study of Ban Takula, Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi province

Title: Role of religious organizations in development assitance : a case study of Ban Takula, Suan Phueng District, Ratchaburi province

Author: Saw Aye Min

Year: 2008

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Development Management, Social Welfare

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The ethnic Karen had been living along Burma and Thailand border areas were the demarcation between the two countries has been porous to data. 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 Lanc 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

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

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

Author: Kal Elle

Year: 2008

Keywords: Networking Transitional social movement/Compulsory License/Thailand

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Health, Human Rights

Advisor(s): Vira Somboon

The full thesis available here.

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

The Thai Labour Unions: Identifying Internal Constraints to Effective Representation of Members' Interests in the Workplace and Society

Title: The Thai Labour Unions: Identifying Internal Constraints to Effective Representation of Members' Interests in the Workplace and Society

Author: Osolnick, John

Year: 2006

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Human Rights, Social Welfare

Advisor(s): Lae Dilokvidhyarat

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: It appears that workers worldwide are relentlessly striving for dignity, fairness, justice, and a better quality of life. Labor unions are crucial institutions in helping workers fight for themselves, their families, and their communities. Over the past twenty to thirty years, however, workers and unions have faced increasingly severe challenges as some believe that curtailing the power and effectiveness of unions will lead to greater personal gain. Therefore, unions worldwide, including in America and Thailand, have confronted these obstacles. However, these obstacles have also led to certain developments, one of which is the creation of a model union system. This research focuses specifically on the movements of Thai labor unions, without detailing the various obstacles faced by Thai workers from employers, the government, or laws. Instead, it tests the potential of Thai labor unions to create an effective model union system. The research aims to identify the problems that Thai labor unions need to address before they can build a successful model union system. Ultimately, the research primarily discusses two key factors necessary for creating a model union system: funding (membership fees) and personnel for organization/membership recruitment. The research reveals that current Thai labor unions lack both funding and personnel for organization/membership recruitment. Workers around the globe seem to share the same constant up-hill struggle for dignity, justice, fairness and a decent way of life. Trade unions have been and continue to be the pivotal institution for working class people to advance their struggle for themselves, their families, and their communities. The past few decades have borne witness to ever-greater challenges to workers and their unions by those who believe they benefit from limiting the power and effectiveness of unions. Consequently, unions all over the world, including in America and Thailand, have faced setbacks in recent decades. There have however been developments that have shown real promise in turning around the setbacks organized labor has been facing. One such development is the organizing model of unionism.This research is focused on the Thai trade union movement. It is not an elaboration of the many hurdles the movement faces from employers, the government or the law. It is instead an examination of what capacities Thai unions have to adopt and implement the organizing model of unionism.This research seeks to examine what internal constraints Thai unions need to address as a prerequisite to adopting the organizing model. To that end, the research is chiefly concerned with examining two key resources needed to adopt the model: financial resources (dues) and organizing staff. The research reveals that Thai unions currently lack both the financial resources and organizing staff to adopt the organizing model.

Transversal resistance and power : an interpretation of the World Social Forum

Title: Transversal resistance and power : an interpretation of the World Social Forum

Author: Rochelle Elena Jones

Year: 2005

Keywords: RESISTANCE/BIOPOWER/WORLD SOCIAL FORUM

Themes: Civil society and Democracy, Post-development

Advisor(s): Soravis Jayanama

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The global development agenda, encompassing neo-liberal policy convergence and global capitalism, has gained momentum since the end of the Cold War and has been perpetuated and upheld by the multilateral institutions of the World Bank, World Trade Organization and International Monetary Fund. The global development agenda is not revealed through an analysis of how the global development agenda is regulated and maintained by historically constituted institutions, norms, categories and identities that are perpetuated by countries in the North, particularly the United States. In response to the global development agenda, new social movements are resisting the homogenisin thrust of global capitalism and neo-liberal policy, and developing and articulating new logics of meaning that are challenging the terms and categories of the boundaries and questions the very logic through which these boundaries frame international politics. The research question of this paper is: how does transversal resistance challenge the global development agenda? Using qualitative methodology and post-structuralist interpretations of power and dissent, this paper explores the transformative capacity of transversal resistance in regards to dominant narratives. Using the World Social Forum (WSF) as a site of transversal resistance, the paper focuses on three sites of potential transformation: The realm of 'dailiness'; spaces; and identity. The research reveals that values and norms play an important role in perpetuating dominant power, and that the WSF is a unique form of politics that challenges the terms and categories of the global development agenda and demonstrates the capacity to destabilise these dominant terms and categories. It does this via the creation of new logics of meaning and practice, by provided a platform for new forms of communication and collaboration, and by contributing to a process of reconstituting and transforming identities.