The socio-economic impacts of sport tourism development in Buriram : Challenges and opportunities for equitable growth

Title: The socio-economic impacts of sport tourism development in Buriram : Challenges and opportunities for equitable growth

Author: Wanwanat Phromdecha

Year: 2024

Keywords: Buriram,Sport tourism,equitable growth,Community Participation,Cultural, Identity,inequality

Themes: Development Management, Social Welfare, Human development and Human security

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis examines the socio-economic impacts and the challenges to equitable growth posed by sport tourism-led development in Buriram Province, Thailand. Over the past decade, Buriram has gained both national and international visibility by branding itself as a sport tourism destination, anchored by infrastructure such as the Chang Arena football stadium and the Buriram International Circuit. However, significant contradictions remain. According to the Thailand People Map (TPMAP), in 2022 Buriram had the highest number of people living in poverty in the northeastern region, totaling 45,356 individuals. Notably, the highest concentration of poverty is found in Mueang District, the same area where major tourism infrastructure is located. Data from the 2022 Poverty and Inequality Report by the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) further illustrates this paradox: between 2004 and 2018, Buriram consistently ranked among the top ten provinces with the highest poverty headcount ratio, reaching the fourth highest in the country in 2015. These findings suggest that while sport tourism generates visibility and revenue, its benefits may not be reaching all segments of the population.This study employs a qualitative approach, using thematic analysis of 13 semi-structured interviews with key local stakeholders, including business owners, tourism workers, residents, state officials, and local scholars. The analysis follows Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework and is supported by secondary data from the NESDC, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and Buriram City Municipality, as well as tourism development plans and economic reports.The findings identify six major challenges to equitable growth in Buriram. First, economic opportunities remain unevenly distributed, with most tourism revenue captured by large, well-connected businesses or national franchises, while local procurement remains limited. Second, livelihood insecurity and rising social costs highlight a disconnect between development gains and the lived realities of many residents. Third, decision-making is dominated by political elites, limiting transparency and reinforcing narrow benefit distribution. Fourth, community participation is weak, as planning is often top-down with minimal grassroots involvement. Lastly, local cultural identity is marginalized, with superficial inclusion in events but limited representation in official narratives, raising concerns about cultural commodification. In conclusion, although sport tourism has contributed to economic growth and increased visibility for Buriram, the distribution of its benefits remains highly uneven. This study underscores the need for policies that strengthen local capacity, promote inclusive governance, and ensure meaningful cultural representation in the province’s ongoing development strategy

Political economy of the landbridge project with a focus on Ranong development

Title: Political economy of the landbridge project with a focus on Ranong development

Author: Wipawadee Panyangnoi

Year: 2024

Keywords: Landbridge Project, Ranong Province, Spatial Justice, Environmental Politics, Public, Participation, Southern Economic Corridor (SEC)

Themes: Development Management, Environmental Politics and Policy, Post-development

Advisor(s): Narumon Arunotai, advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis examines the policy process of the Ao Ang–Laem Rio Landbridge project, with a focus on Ranong Province, to explore the institutional and power dynamics underpinning the formulation of infrastructure development policy in Thailand. The study draws upon the frameworks of institutional and power-centered political economy, environmental justice, and place-based development to analyze the relationships among the state, capital interests, political actors, and local communities. The findings reveal that the promotion of the Landbridge project operates within a centralized policy structure that prioritizes macroeconomic and corporate interests over local capacities and community needs. Although the state has framed the project through the discourse of regional development, the actual process of site designation—such as the selection of Ranong—reflects structural inequalities, the erosion of community rights in determining their own futures, and the systematic neglect of socio-ecological dimensions. The Environmental and Health Impact Assessment (EHIA) process for the proposed deep-sea port at Ao Ang further demonstrates institutional limitations that hinder meaningful public participation. At the same time, an analysis of everyday politics uncovers the sociopolitical dynamics within Ranong that make it increasingly difficult for citizens to exercise their rights to question or scrutinize state-led development initiatives. This study argues that the analysis of large-scale development policy must systematically link national structures to local dynamics in order to illuminate the overlapping actors and power relations across scales. Such an approach is essential for understanding the barriers to spatial justice and for advancing the right to meaningful public participation in development processes

Japanese public-private partnerships for promoting sustainable development : An analysis of JICA's SDGs-oriented business support in Thailand

Title: Japanese public-private partnerships for promoting sustainable development : An analysis of JICA's SDGs-oriented business support in Thailand

Author: Kana Tsutsumi

Year: 2024

Keywords: Japan, ODA, Public Private Partnership, SDGs

Themes: Development Management, Innovation for Inclusive Development

Advisor(s): Teewin Suputtikun

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognize the private sector as a crucial driver for global sustainable development. To align with the SDGs, Japan has strengthened public-private partnerships (PPPs) in its ODA. This thesis explores how the Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) SDGs Business Supporting Survey promotes sustainable development for both Japan and Thailand. This survey scheme aims to encourage Japanese SMEs to test socially impactful business models. This study uses two case studies of Japanese SMEs in Thailand through document analysis and interviews to examine how PPPs facilitate technology transfer, local access, and network building. Even though there are still challenges like the difficulty of transition from proof-of-concept to sustainable business operations, limited follow-up, and administrative burdens, the findings show the importance of collaboration among the government, private sector, and academia. This study concludes that the evolution of Japan’s PPP model from traditional ODA to a co-creation model balances between national interest and the alignment of global norms under mutual interdependence relationships in the era of the SDGs

Intersectionality and Gender Injustice in Higher Education in Pre- and Post-coup Myanmar

Title: Intersectionality and Gender Injustice in Higher Education in Pre- and Post-coup Myanmar

Author: Ei Yin Yin Phyu

Year: 2023

Keywords: Gender equality, Sex discrimination, Sex discrimination in education, Sexual freedom

Themes: Development Management, Post-development, Innovation for Inclusive Development

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This research examines gender injustice in Higher Education in pre- and post-coup Myanmar. It explores how gender injustice has been perceived and practiced during the semicivilian government and after the 2021 coup, both in private and public spaces. Using intersectionality and gender injustice concepts, this research employs a qualitative approach, collecting primary data through interviews with women university scholars, as well as secondary sources such as legal documents, education laws, university policies and regulations regarding gender equality. It incorporates other gender-related concepts and frameworks in order to strengthen its empirical findings. Primary data collection included 17 female participants from diverse socio-demographic backgrounds and religious beliefs with work experiences ranging from 9 to over 25 years in public universities or institutions across Myanmar. The findings of this study support the thesis argument on the interconnected gender injustice faced by women in the academic sphere, especially academic women from ethnic minorities, marginal groups and non-Buddhist religions. The gender injustice situation has been even worse after the 2021 coup. Finally, the thesis aims to contribute to the interconnected gender and societal workplace challenges faced by Myanmar’s female academics and to the development interventions by state and non-state actors for fulfilling Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Stakeholder Analysis of Socioeconomic Impacts on Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong Rail Project in Chiang Rai Province

Title: Stakeholder Analysis of Socioeconomic Impacts on Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong Rail Project in Chiang Rai Province

Author: Tanthita Sukhopala

Year: 2018

Keywords: Rail project, Chiang Rai, Socioeconomic impact, urban expansion

Themes: Development Management, Human development and Human security, Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Pitch Pongsawat

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The objectives of this research are (1) to study the impacts of Chiang Rai - Chiang Khong rail project on Chiang Rai provinces, especially the social and economic impacts which are caused by the rail project, positively and negatively and (2) to analyze advantages and disadvantages of Chiang Rai - Chiang Khong rail project on Chiang Rai province. The scope of study covers 2 main areas including (1) the search for different impacts in 3 different train station areas and (2) the search for different impacts between local people who live within 5 kilometers of the area where train station will be constructed and local people who live farther than 5 kilometers from the area where train station will be constructed. The research has done by employing survey, observation and in-depth interview with local people in Chiang Rai province in order to focus on the districts which are planned to be the location of train station, namely Wiang Chai district, Chiang Khong district and Pa Daet district. These districts can be influenced by the rail project from the beginning such as the impact from the construction, including land expropriation problem, land price increasing, the impact during the construction which may cause traffic jam or block the water flow in agriculture area, and the impact after construction by which the railway may separate villages or communities and cause several other environmental problems. Urban expansion in Chiang Rai may not expand according to the railway or train station because the town has correspondingly been expanded with the highway. However, the railway is mainly to benefit on tourism and hospitality industry, trade and investment, logistic and supply chain, domestically and internationally. Chiang Rai demands the different way of development which is suitable for basic infrastructure after having the railway in the province.

Development in Sihanoukville under Chinese influence

Title: Development in Sihanoukville under Chinese influence

Author: Tom Alexander Buehler

Year: 2018

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Development Management, Post-development, Human development and Human security

Advisor(s): Nualnoi Treerat, advisor, Wasana Wongsurawat, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The coastal city of Sihanoukville in Cambodia is undergoing rapid change caused by massive Chinese industrial and real estate investments. Why Sihanoukville is the target of these investments and how these recent developments are affecting the local Cambodians has not been studied so far. Theories of neoliberalism, globalization, and foreign direct investment were used to examine the reasons for investments and conflict theory to analyze the impacts and the consequences of increasing inequality. The research used a mainly qualitative design, including interviews with people involved in the changes. Cambodia strongly welcomes foreign direct investments and at the same time urgently needs investments stimulating development. China, on the other hand, has the financial power and strong economic interests to invest in Cambodia. Sihanoukville is often chosen for these activities because it is has promising growth prospects and a very liberal investment regime. Locals often do not profit from the investments. Rents and property prices are exploding. Chinese own the majority of the businesses now, employing their own compatriots there, and often disrespecting local law. These issues are not adequately addressed by the local government and thus foster anti-Chinese sentiments. However, if the Cambodian government would ensure stricter compliance with law and put the wellbeing of the population above other interests, the long-term effects of the current transformation could improve the livelihoods of all. This also applies to other countries in the region, who could benefit from Chinese investments if a strong state would insist on sustainability and inclusiveness of their rapid growth.

Village fund implicatgion : Community development in disadantaged region in Indonesia

Title: Village fund implicatgion : Community development in disadantaged region in Indonesia

Author: Dian Suryani Sinaga

Year: 2017

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Development Management, Human development and Human security, Social Welfare

Advisor(s): Niti Pawakapan

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: State-based management approaches to village fund program implementation has often failed to reach the optimization the benefit from this program for village development in disadvantaged village in Indonesia. The goal of village fund program is for alleviating poverty, improving village public services, promoting the village economy, overcoming Indonesia development gap, and strengthening village community as the subject of development. This research is based on the assumption that the optimization of village fund utilization is related to the management project. Against this background, by co-management strategy for village fund program have a considerable potential for minimizing the obstacles approached by community participation and co-management. The purpose of this study is to analyze the strategy of co-management in optimizing the village funds utilization in the disadvantaged villages throuht a qualitative approach. The author uses the purposive sampling method through interviews, observation, documentation, and informal talk. The process of data analysis includes data reduction, data presentation, and the conclusion of observation. The concepts of community participation, co-management, and village development are needed in optimizing the village fund program for village development. In fact, participation was obtained through a good co-management among village government, village elited, and villagers. The result are people are willing in giving participation by ideas, funds, skill, as well as material development and minimizing implication. Conclusion highlight the importance of improvement of management project, cross-sector collaboration, and support regulation in for optimizing of village fund utilization

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

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

Author: Soe, Sandar Oo

Year: 2015

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

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

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

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

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

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

Author: Colin Morgan Carpenter

Year: 2015

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Development Management, Environmental Politics and Policy, Innovation for Inclusive Development

Advisor(s): Ake Tangsupvattana

The full thesis available here.

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

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

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

Author: Zar Ni Maung

Year: 2014

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

Themes: Development Management, Environmental Politics and Policy, Innovation for Inclusive Development

Advisor(s): Niti Pawakapan

The full thesis available here.

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

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

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

Author: Nwe Ni Win Kyaw

Year: 2014

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

Themes: Development Management, Innovation for Inclusive Development

Advisor(s): Prakorn Siriprakob

The full thesis available here.

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

Exploring the unexplored paradise, tourism industry in Northeast Indian States : prospects and problems

Title: Exploring the unexplored paradise, tourism industry in Northeast Indian States : prospects and problems

Author: Junty Sharma Pathak

Year: 2014

Keywords: TOURISM / DEVELOPMENT / POTENTIALS / POLICY

Themes: Development Management, Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Niti Pawakapan

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Despite being endowed with huge untapped natural resources the North Eastern region of India for most of its post-independence history has been primarily perceived within security paradigms. This has resulted in major negligence of its development and self-sustainability while its economic potentials have remained unexploited. Consequently, the region is plagued with multiple issues of political instability, poverty, maladministration and is yet to gain freedom from wants, hunger, unemployment and exploitation. Thus, this paper argues for the need of an alternate model of development for the region interlinking purposes of ‘security’ and ‘development’. In this context the paper analyses the potentials and benefits of promoting tourism and argues that tourism can be an effective policy option to meet special development needs and to remove major sources of ‘unfreedom’ from human lives in the region, especially because of wide untapped comparative advantages in the sector and its inherent multiplier effect on development. Primarily a qualitative study, data was collected through interviewing key informants and from extensive literature review, which reveals that there is ample scope in the region to develop new tourism products (notably tea tourism, golf tourism, wild life/eco/ adventure tourism, cultural/pilgrim tourism, rural tourism, river cruise tourism, medical tourism, defence tourism & world war II Trail / circuits) not only regionally but also through a model of cross border tourism with Myanmar, taking advantages of shared ties and its geo political location to meet present economic and development challenges. As a key priority of the research is to provide recommendations, the paper suggests that Northeast should adopt an integrated regional tourism policy with core ideas of ‘sustainable tourism’ and ‘people’s participation’, the tourism development policy should necessarily be organized on a ‘developmental perspective’ rather than the present ‘attraction centric approach’, the policy should converge with Myanmar’s tourism policies to build on listed potentials among other recommendations to help in formulating suitable tourism policies for the region to bring much-needed development as is hoped for

Capacity development in community based tourism

Title: Capacity development in community based tourism

Author: Laerke Lilith Thorndal-Debes

Year: 2013

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

Themes: Development Management, Innovation for Inclusive Development

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

The full thesis available here.

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

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

Themes: Development Management, Innovation for Inclusive Development, Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: There is increasing interest in Muhammad Yunusâs Grameen Bank microfinance model as a means of addressing the needs of Burmaâs 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 borrowersâ 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.

Making Humanitarian Action Accountable: A Case Study of Humanitarian Accountability Partnership Certification and the Thailand-Burma Border Consortium

Title: Making Humanitarian Action Accountable: A Case Study of Humanitarian Accountability Partnership Certification and the Thailand-Burma Border Consortium

Author: Mac Albert Shaw

Year: 2010

Keywords: HUMANITARIAN ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNERSHIP /, THAILAND BURMA BORDER CONSORTIUM

Themes: Development Management, Disaster and Crisis Management, Migration

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The development and aid sector has undergone a general professionalization, which lately has paved the way for a number of quality and accountability mechanisms. These are intended to provide evidence of impact and to demonstrate that NGOs support their intended beneficiaries in a justifiable manner. One of the recent initiatives is the Humanitarian Accountability Partnership (HAP). It is a self-regulatory NGO-initiative which has a primary focus on certifying member organizations against benchmarked standards for humanitarian action and has lately come to be known as the loudest champion of beneficiary voices. This research critically assesses the HAP certification scheme through a case study of the Thailand Burma Border Consortium (TBBC) who dismissed a suggestion to become HAP-certification on the grounds that it would have no clearly demonstrable benefits. The analysis looks into how the TBBC staff members practice and perceive their current accountability initiatives, the motives for TBBC to dismiss HAP certification at this time, and finally what challenges and opportunities TBBC face in relation to seeking HAP certification. The research shows that HAP certification could strengthen TBBC's legitimacy globally without being at the cost of their local legitimacy. However, if HAP becomes successful enough to become a pre-requisite of funding, it would put pressure on TBBC to re-organize and take on the certification process at a pace that would undermine local accountability. Currently TBBC staff members are divided towards the organization's strategic line. Therefore a deeper discussion at all levels of the organization of what HAP certification might mean for TBBC, would be beneficial to internalize and streamline the strategic position and hereby increase internal legitimacy. Aid and development agencies have undertaken general professionalization efforts, recently paving the way for new, qualitative and verifiable mechanisms. These are aimed at providing evidence of impacts and demonstrating that private organizations justify their expected benefits. One recent innovation is the Humanitarian Aid Auditing Partnership (HAP), a self-regulatory mechanism for non-governmental organizations whose primary objective is to certify member organizations according to established standards for humanitarian work. This concept has been welcomed by many and has been hailed as one of the most influential voices among beneficiaries. This research critically evaluates the HAP accreditation program using the case study of the Thai-Myanmar Border Cooperation Project, which abandoned its recommendation to become an accredited HAP on the grounds of unclear benefits. Data analysis focuses on the work of personnel in the Thai-Myanmar Border Cooperation Project, opinions on the current auditing mechanism, the motivations behind the project's abandonment of HAP accreditation at that time, and finally, to examine the challenges and opportunities the Thai-Myanmar Border Cooperation Project may face when seeking HAP accreditation in the future. The research concludes that ratification of a party to the Humanitarian Aid Inspection Party could enable the Thai-Myanmar border cooperation project to gain international recognition without sacrificing local recognition, which is understandable. However, if the Humanitarian Aid Inspection Party proves sufficiently successful to be a prerequisite for receiving financial assistance, the Thai-Myanmar border cooperation project would be obligated to obtain ratification promptly, potentially leading to local verification. Currently, the personnel involved in the Thai-Myanmar border cooperation project are divided into several factions according to the organization's strategy. Therefore, in-depth discussions at all levels within the organization regarding the potential impact of ratifying the Thai-Myanmar border cooperation project as a party to the Humanitarian Aid Inspection Party could gradually foster a strategic position and potentially lead to increased international legal recognition.

Pro-Poor tourism in Kerala, South India : policy implementation and impacts

Title: Pro-Poor tourism in Kerala, South India : policy implementation and impacts

Author: Thibault Michot

Year: 2009

Keywords: PRO-POOR, TOURISM, RESPONSIBILITY, KERALA, POLICY,, IMPLEMENTATION

Themes: Development Management, Social Welfare, Innovation for Inclusive Development

Advisor(s): Nantana Gajaseni

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Nowadays the world is coming through a worldwide economic crisis. Meanwhile the tourism industry is still expected to keep booming at an impressive rate of almost 10%, and the figure of 1 billion international travelers will probably be hit in 2010. Therefore, this sector has consequent impacts on people's lives, especially in developing countries where tourism is seen as a great opportunity to generate income. However, because of the way the industry is ruled, tourism did not bring economic benefit that much to local communities. In many ways, tourism has been harmful not only to the environment, but also to social structures. It is clear that the authorities must redesign their tourism policies toward a more sustainable and responsible direction. The state of Kerala in India is aware of the issues generated by tourism and claims to be a pioneer in designing tourism policies that benefit the poor. Therefore, this study has the objectives to: (a) conduct an evaluation to see what is actually pro-poor in the policy recently implemented by the Kerala Department of Tourism; (b) assess what impacts these policies have on the peoples' lives; and (c) explore the possibility to replicate the model of Kerala to other destinations. The results showed that Kerala's new tourism policies are truly innovative. Under what is called "Responsible Tourism Initiative", there are definitely measures designed to achieve poverty alleviation through tourism activities. Kerala is paying attention to respect the Pro-Poor Tourism principles; and although it takes time to see the efficiency of policies on the field, the pilot project of Kumarakom already showed positive outcomes on economic and social empowerment of the local community. On the other hand, the possibility to replicate what is ongoing in Kerala seems more questionable regarding the state apparently benefited from a set of very favorable initial conditions that may not be possible to find anywhere else.

The socio-economic impacts of Lao-Thai informal border trade on people's livelihood and poverty reduction

Title: The socio-economic impacts of Lao-Thai informal border trade on people's livelihood and poverty reduction

Author: Viengxay Thammavong

Year: 2008

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Development Management, Human development and Human security, Social Welfare

Advisor(s): Puangthong Pawakapan, Advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine the networks of informal cross-border trade and its relationship to formal trade, as well as the impact of informal trade on the livelihoods of those involved. The study shows that almost all informal cross-border traders are women aged 25-45 with limited education. All informal cross-border trade is small-scale, primarily trading consumer goods and household appliances. The research also indicates that the income from informal cross-border trade is significantly higher than their previous incomes. Therefore, informal cross-border trade is a genuine source of income for those involved, and it can even become their primary occupation, resulting in improved living conditions. The study demonstrates that cross-border traders overcome business obstacles by leveraging their social networks and business expertise. They operate as a social community comprising cross-border traders, porters, etc. This integration of social networks benefits the cross-border traders by reducing competition, building trust, and enhancing their capabilities. At the same time, they use these social networks to protect themselves from exploitation. The study further highlights the businesses of these cross-border traders. Cross-border trade involves elements of both formal and informal trade. Specifically, border traders own legally registered shops, have obtained licenses from relevant government agencies, and pay taxes. Meanwhile, the goods sold in these shops are purchased both formally and informally to reduce costs and maximize profits. Therefore, formal and informal trade inherently overlap in some aspects. This study focuses on studying the characteristics of informal border trade networks and its relation to formal channel, and the impacts of informal trade on people's livelihoods involving in the informal trade. The finding determined that almost of the informal border traders are women, aged between 25 to 45 years old, with low level of education. Most of the informal border trade was on a small scale and the products traded are mostly consumption and household goods. The research also indicated that the income earning from informal border trade of the traders is much higher than those from their previous jobs. Therefore, the informal border trade is a real source of income for people who involve in the business and it can be considered as their main job. As the result, their living condition has been improved better. The finding of the research showed that the border traders are able to overcome the barriers in their business operations by calling on a number of social network and business skills. They work in a social community which included other border traders, porters and other parties. The combination of these social linkages gives border traders advantages in minimizing hassles, building trust and increasing the scope of their capabilities. At the same time, they use these social networks to guard against another party taking advantage of them. The research also found that the businesses of these cross border traders are themselves combine a formal and informal characteristic. On the shop itself, a shop owner has to apply for a license from authority concerned and pay taxes to customs while goods suppliers in a shop buy from both formal and informal channel in order to reduce their capital and gain maximize profit. Therefore, formal and informal trades are overlapping in this border trade area.

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: Kalina, Marc

Year: 2008

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Development Management, Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Rosalia Sciortino, Surichai Wun'Gaeo

The full thesis available here.

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 reaffirms 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

Towards governance reform : a critical review of foreign assistance to Burma/Myanmar

Title: Towards governance reform : a critical review of foreign assistance to Burma/Myanmar

Author: Michael Paller

Year: 2007

Keywords: N/A

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

Advisor(s): Chantana Banpasirichote

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Burma receives a paltry amount of foreign assistance. This is because donors rescinded aid and devised new policies strictly limiting cooperation with the Burmese government in response to the military’s ruthless crackdown on protests in August 1988 and the junta’s subsequent failure to establish democracy. The little assistance that remains is primarily humanitarian. This paper begins with the premise that carefully considered, attentively applied, closely monitored aid can be effective in eventually bringing about governance reforms in Burma. But what foreign assistance strategies are most likely to improve governance in Burma and why? In answering this question, this paper evaluates different strategies according to the principal recipient of aid. Such recipients include: the State Peace and Development Council; local government and the civil bureaucracy; international agencies (UN and INGOs); community-based organizations inside Burma; nongovernmental organization in exile; or nobody. Key findings point to mixed results. The links between governance reform and foreign aid are tenuous, even in theory, but certain strategies seem to be able to promote and even provoke change. The strategies that channel aid to the SPDC or no one are most unlikely to bring about such change; however engagement with the civil bureaucracy, international agencies, community-based organizations inside Burma and nongovernmental organizations in exile has produced results, albeit on a relatively small-scale.

State policy on small and medium enterprises (SMEs): a case study of morally sensitive enterprises in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Title: State policy on small and medium enterprises (SMEs): a case study of morally sensitive enterprises in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Author: Xuan Minh Le

Year: 2007

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Development Management, Social Welfare, Gender

Advisor(s): Preecha Kuwinpant

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Vietnam's economic transition to a market economy and its integration into the global economy has significantly impacted private sector participation in the country, as evidenced by a 95% increase in the number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A major challenge for SMEs, particularly those deemed "morally sensitive," is the obstacle they face in obtaining business licenses in Ho Chi Minh City. This research aims to study the factors affecting the application for business licenses for "morally sensitive" SMEs within the context of the market economy transition and WTO regulations. The study found that, in practice, the process of registering such businesses is complex, lacks transparency, and is illogical. Furthermore, it revealed that government officials held views and ideologies opposed to registration, contradicting the study's hypothesis. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the policy failed due to several reasons: 1) Bias among conservative government officials who opposed "morally sensitive" businesses; 2) Misinterpretation of the policy by lower-level officials; 3) Lack of public understanding of business registration regulations; and 4) Prejudiced views of the public and media towards private businesses. Overall, it can be said that, in the context of the transition to a market economy and integration into the global economy, the failure of this policy stems from the conflict between the principles of a market economy and the ethical principles of society. Finally, the authors suggest that researchers studying the implementation of this policy in Vietnam should place greater emphasis on the roles and responsibilities of lower-level government officials. Thanks to the transformation to market economy and international integration of Vietnam, the role of private sector takes a vital part in the economy, in which SMEs take over 95% of the total number. However, despite their significant contribution, SMEs working in “sensitive” services still have faced many obstacles when obtaining the business registration certificate in Ho Chi Minh City. The purpose of the research is to study the factors influence issuance of business registration certificate for “sensitive” SMEs in the context of Vietnam's transformation to market economy and WTO penetration. Findings from the study prove that issuance of business registration certificate for sensitive enterprise is complicated, non-transparent, and unreasonable. Especially, contrary to the hypothesis, the study finds various opposite viewpoints of officials due to their ideology. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that this policy failed due to some reasons: (i) bias of conservative officials against “sensitive” businesses; (ii) inadequate interpretation of the policy by street-level bureaucrats; (iii) poor knowledge of the public about regulations on the business registration; (iv) traditional prejudice of the public perception as well as mass media towards private sector. Overall, in the context of economic transition and global integration, two conflict principles market economy versus social morality also contribute to the policy failure. Last but not least, in order to close this research, the author recommended prospective researches researchers pay much more attention to actions and the role of street-level bureaucrats when studying policy implementation in Vietnam.