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.

Digging deeper : coal workers’ perceptions of reskilling towards future career paths in the green energy transition at Mae Moh, Thailand

Title: Digging deeper : coal workers’ perceptions of reskilling towards future career paths in the green energy transition at Mae Moh, Thailand

Author: Tiana Voogt

Year: 2025

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Post-development,Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Khathaleeya Liamdee

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to understand coal workers’ perceptions towards reskilling for the GET. Rather than assuming resistance or acceptance, this study seeks to understand the nuanced reality of workers' perspectives - their concerns about job quality and stability, their readiness for retraining, their trust (or lack thereof) in government and industry promises, and their visions for their own futures. By focusing on mid‑career, medium‑skilled workers, this research targets a group that are most exposed to transition risks, with significant remaining working years, yet substantial investment in their current occupations. This research examines those most directly impacted by policy decisions regarding the closing down of fossil fuel infrastructure.

From rice farming to plastic recycling: local innovation and agrarian change in Minh Khai Village, Hung Yen province, Vietnam

Title: From rice farming to plastic recycling: local innovation and agrarian change in Minh Khai Village, Hung Yen province, Vietnam

Author: Phuong Linh Pham

Year: 2025

Keywords: plastic waste recycling, waste economy, local innovation, agrarian change

Themes: Innovation for Inclusive Development ,Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Carl Nigel Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This research analyzes the initiation and expansion of the plastic waste recycling business from the perspective of local innovation, and the agrarian consequences of this business in Minh Khai village, Hung Yen, Vietnam. Originating in the 1980s as individual efforts to diversify household livelihoods amid poverty, Minh Khai’s plastic recycling industry gradually evolved into a community-based economic ecosystem. This development was shaped by the opportunities created through economic reforms, the geographical advantages of certain regions, and the strong role of kinship networks in sharing knowledge and new livelihood models. This transformation in livelihood patterns has driven a transition in land use from agricultural to industrial purposes, altered the composition of the labor force from local villagers to migrant workers, and reshaped the socio-economic structure of the community. The Minh Khai case illustrates how the emergence and expansion of the waste economy in the Global South stem not only from people’s efforts to escape poverty in the absence of adequate state support, but also from the state’s failure to guide livelihoods and local economies toward stable and sustainable pathways

Thailand's official development assistance: an analysis of development diplomacy

Title: Thailand's official development assistance: an analysis of development diplomacy

Author: Monrada Yamkasikorn

Year: 2025

Keywords: Development diplomacy, Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, Official Development Assistance

Themes: Post-development,Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Kasira Cheeppensook

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This study examines Thailand’s transition from an aid recipient to an emerging donor and analyzes the evolution and limitations of its Official Development Assistance (ODA). It seeks to explain how Thailand has repositioned itself within the global development architecture and the implications of this shift for regional development dynamics. Drawing on political economy of aid, this study argues that Thailand’s donor transformation reflects a gradual and context-driven process shaped by both domestic developments and evolving regional norms, rather than a purely linear outcome of economic growth. The formal articulation of donor status, particularly during the administration of Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra, the-then Prime Minister, can be understood as part of a broader effort to align Thailand with emerging practices of South–South cooperation. Nevertheless, the transition continues to face limitations, particularly in terms of strategic coherence, policy direction, and the ability to generate sustained and strategic development cooperation. The findings indicate that while Thailand’s ODA contributes to her role on active development diplomacy and addressing regional cooperation norms, it remains constrained by fragmented institutional coordination, effective evaluation mechanism, and resource limitations. A predominantly state-centric and top-down approach, combined with an emphasis on soft power objectives, may further limit local ownership and responsiveness to recipient needs. Moreover, Thailand’s aid practices may reproduce patterns of interdependence, even in the absence of deliberate intent. The study concludes that Thailand occupies an intermediate position in global development governance, where development assistance simultaneously reflects cooperation and strategic influence expansion.

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.

Yunnanese Chinese youth’s aspirations to migrate and migration infrastructure in Doi Mae Salong, Chiang Rai

Title: Yunnanese Chinese youth’s aspirations to migrate and migration infrastructure in Doi Mae Salong, Chiang Rai

Author: Chingen Chiou

Year: 2025

Keywords: Yunnanese Chinese, Migration Aspiration, Migration Infrastructure, Doi Mae Salong

Themes: Migration,Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Jiraporn Laocharoenwong

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis examines the migration aspirations of Yunnanese Chinese youth and the migration infrastructure in Doi Mae Salong, Chiang Rai. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork and semi-structured interviews, it analyzes the social and economic conditions that drive their future mobility and migration routes. In tandem, it explores the migration infrastructure that mediates the realization of their mobility. It argues that institutions originally established as sites of diasporic cultural reproduction have reassembled into migration infrastructures that further shape and direct the younger generation’s mobile futures. This research expands on youth perspectives and their conditions within Thailand’s Yunnanese Chinese community. It contributes to discussions of identity and educational institutions that are less addressed in migration infrastructure literature.

Soulaani praxis : the blueprint they called radical development

Title: Soulaani praxis : the blueprint they called radical development

Author: Aliyah Bell

Year: 2025

Keywords: Soulaan, Racial capitalism, Institution-building, Organized abandonment, Freedom farms cooperative, Black panther party, Black americans

Themes: Post-development,Human Development and Human Security

Advisor(s): Thanapan Laiprako

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The United States is built upon foundational contradictions, promising liberty while institutionalizing slavery and promoting democracy while denying rights to many. Rather than treating these contradictions as historical anomalies, this thesis examines them as central features of a racialized social order that has shaped the political, economic, and developmental experiences of Soulaani people. Throughout this study, the term Soulaani refers to descendants of Africans forcibly brought to the United States through the transatlantic slave trade whose ancestral lineage is rooted within the American experience of slavery and its enduring legacies. Within this context, Black resistance has often been framed as a struggle for rights and recognition. Yet it has also functioned as a site of development, generating alternative systems of survival, care, and collective advancement. Drawing from Development Studies, Political Thought, and theories of cultural hegemony, this research explores how Soulaani communities responded to exclusion by creating institutions, practices, and forms of collective action that challenged dominant understandings of development. Through an examination of community-led initiatives, political organizing, and self-determination, the thesis investigates how development can emerge from below rather than solely through the state, market, or international institutions. By centering Soulaani experiences, this study contributes to broader debates on development, power, and social transformation while inviting a reconsideration of who is recognized as a producer of development and what forms development can take.

Socioeconomic endurance during the post-coup conflict : A case study of a community in mandalay region, central myanmar

Title: Socioeconomic endurance during the post-coup conflict : A case study of a community in mandalay region, central myanmar

Author: Htet Yamone Win

Year: 2024

Keywords: Community Resilience, Socioeconomic hardship, post-coup adaptation, Myanmar

Themes: Human development and Human security, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies, Development Management

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Myanmar’s post-coup context has severely affected the local communities through the ongoing multiple crises in governance, livelihoods, and security matters. Myanmar military’s attempt to coup in 2021 triggered widespread resistance, including both non-violence and armed-resistance strategies, and led to sharp economic decline and public service disruptions. Those crises have been reshaping everyone’s daily life in Myanmar. While the much of existing literature focuses on those who have fled the country, this study centers on the experiences of individuals and communities who remain in the country, embracing the direct impact of political repression, economic instability and social fragmentation. Focusing on a township in Mandalay Region of Central Myanmar, a place where both local resistance and military operations are strong, this research examines how residents continue to navigate their daily life struggles under authoritarian conditions. For many individuals in the township, migration is not a viable option due to financial difficulties, political constraints, family obligations, and the risks associated with fleeing. Through a qualitative case study approach, guided by the Community Resilience Framework (CRF), this study explores how those who remain have developed the adaptive strategies across four dimensions: economic development, social capital, information and communication, and then community competence. With a particular focus on a localized analysis, the findings reveal that resilience in this context is marked by constrained endurance shaped by fear, inequality, and emotional fatigue. Therefore, this study contributes to broader discussions on community resilience in the conflict-driven settings and offers valuable insights into how these populations persist in the face of systemic violence and state repression

Assessing the contribution of Thailand’s poultry agribusiness towards mitigating climate change

Title: Assessing the contribution of Thailand’s poultry agribusiness towards mitigating climate change

Author: Tita Phairaksa

Year: 2022

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Human development and Human security, Disaster and Crisis Management, Environmental Politics and Policy, Health

Advisor(s): Carl Nigel Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This research provides an overview of the Thailand agreement on greenhouse gas emissions, specifically focusing on the meat industry, and examines the roles of the government, private companies, and civil society in Thailand. Research indicates that the meat industry has significant environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.Livestock for meat consumption has been a major contributor to environmental issues such as climate change, water pollution, and deforestation. Livestock alone contributes a substantial percentage to global climate change. This issue has become a critical transboundary concern affecting not only one specific country or region.In response to the environmental impacts and the global challenge of climate change, the Thai government signed and committed to the Paris Agreement in 2015, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Thailand has set a target to decrease greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2030, and the Climate Change Master Plan (2015-2050) envisions achieving sustainable low-carbon growth and climate resilience by 2050. However, the country's environmental policy still lacks clarity and a specific focus on greenhouse gas emissions from the meat industry.Currently, Thai meat industries do not include information about greenhouse gas emissions in their environmental reports, and they tend to overlook environmental issues related to their operations. Moreover, these industries possess significant influence over the media, controlling information about the environmental impact of the meat industry. As a result, civil society has taken a leading role in raising awareness about this issue, rather than relying on the government or industry itself.In conclusion, my research findings suggest that the Thai government's lack of a robust environmental policy and management approach has contributed to weak regulation of greenhouse gas emissions in the meat industry. There is a need for more comprehensive and concerted efforts from all stakeholders to address this pressing environmental concern effectively

Youths' participation in agriculture for enhancing sustainable livelihoods: A case study of the Pa-O self-administered zone in southern Shan state, Myanmar

Title: Youths' participation in agriculture for enhancing sustainable livelihoods: A case study of the Pa-O self-administered zone in southern Shan state, Myanmar

Author: Khine Zin Yu Aung

Year: 2020

Keywords: Agriculture, Youths, Sustainable Livelihoods, Rural Development

Themes: Human development and Human security, Development Management, Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Myanmar in which 70 percent of the population is rural people relies on agricultural sector for its economy. It contributes about 37.8 percent of the country’s GDP and employs about 50 percent of the labors (FAO, 2020). However, Myanmar’s agricultural sector is not well developed and does not stand as reliable livelihood for the people, especially for the youths, in rural areas. Hence, the people in rural areas have to seek more livelihood opportunities like leaving their farmlands and moving to other places for work. This situation has impact both on youths and on the agricultural sector which needs youths’ capacities for its development. Therefore, this study focuses on the challenges for the youths in rural areas in approaching their livelihoods, their contribution to agricultural development and how to support them in enhancing sustainable livelihoods in rural areas. This study is conducted through qualitative methods with the use of case study of Pa-O SAZ located in Southern Shan state of Myanmar. The findings result that youths have more challenges for access to natural capital and less challenges for access to physical, social and human capitals. Another significant finding is that both youths and the elders have challenges for access to knowledge or information on their livelihoods. The strengths of the youths for agricultural livelihoods are having more capabilities to adapt with new techniques, innovative ways as well as to connect with varieties of people. For their livelihoods, the youths make decision depending on the factors of having experiences and exposures, support from government and organizations, education, parents and families’ background and access to finance. This study also argues that sustainable livelihood is not only about getting more wages and profit but also about having job and social security. Though agriculture is not promising and reliable work in terms of wages or profit, it can still be regarded as a main livelihood in terms of sustainability in Pa-O SAZ. Hence, diversification becomes the most preferred livelihood strategy for all of the youths participated in this study. Therefore, the study suggests to promote the youths’ participation in agriculture through financial and technical supports from government, NGOs, CSOs, CBOs and the private sector in order to enhance more sustainable livelihoods in Pa-O SAZ.

Livelihoods training for internally displaced persons (idps) in Kachin state, Myanmar: success and challenges beneficiaries

Title: Livelihoods training for internally displaced persons (idps) in Kachin state, Myanmar: success and challenges beneficiaries

Author: Lucia Lujan

Year: 2019

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Human development and Human security, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies, Migration, Development Management

Advisor(s): Supang Chantavanich

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Over 100,000 persons have been internally displaced from various towns within Kachin State, Myanmar. Starting in 2015, some agencies began providing livelihood support programs for the IDP population in many campsites. This research focuses on the opportunities and challenges faced by Kachin IDPs who receive support from livelihood programs in pursuit of better employment opportunities. Drawing on a qualitative research approach, this research examines two of the most effective livelihood training activities and two less successful livelihood training activities which help IDPs to enhance their employment capacity, increasing their opportunities to receive an income. The livelihood support activities help IDPs to learn new skills and techniques through training. This paper also provides recommendations for livelihood support programs to achieve their long-term goals. There are four main factors that support the effectiveness of IDP livelihood training programs, including long- or short-term time frames to conduct trainings, technical support for skill development, provision of training that is both relevant in the local area and accessible to the local market, and sufficient financial support for trained IDPs after their training. The livelihood support programs must be implemented in consideration of human rights, needs, and strengths, also acknowledging the various contexts of service delivery. The development of policy related to IDP-specific issues needs to invite the participation of the local government and local staff who are experienced in the areas of operation. The livelihood support training programs should be designed as adjustable programs in order to better promote the capacity of IDPs. Furthermore, coordination should be established amongst national organizations, international organizations, local organizations, and other stakeholders to identify the best solutions for promoting employment opportunities for IDPs as each agency possesses different resources which need to be properly allocated for the purpose of IDP capacity building

Towards sustainable livelihoods in the industrailizing economy : a case study of the agricultural communities in the eastern economic corridor, Thailand

Title: Towards sustainable livelihoods in the industrailizing economy : a case study of the agricultural communities in the eastern economic corridor, Thailand

Author: Sirapat Puttachoo

Year: 2019

Keywords: Sustainable Livelihoods, Economic Integration, Community Adaptive Capacity, Inclusive Development

Themes: Human development and Human security, Development Management, Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Jakkrit Sangkhamanee

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Whilst, the associated development policies and government services for agricultural development under Thailand 4.0 in the Eastern Economic Corridor has potential implication to provide the opportunity for the agricultural community to greater their income and enhance well-being. However, there are few studies assessing the community capacity toward those opportunities. The capacity is the key feature for community development. It can also become the justification for accessibility into the new dynamic of the structural development. Insufficient or mismatched capacity with the current innovation activity and economic system could become a barrier for the community to access the range of project’s benefits. Two community enterprises in Map Ta Phut, “Biodiversity-based community enterprise, Krok Yai Cha” and “Khod Hin Organic Farm Community Enterprise” are potential sources to apprehend the role of agent-oriented development. Most of the community members remain working in the agricultural sectors, significantly tropical fruit farm. The community enterprise has been established to respond to both opportunity and the challenge of socio-economic transformation in dual-economic development. By using the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework allows the study to understand the complexity of factors that influence the local livelihoods. Particularly, the framework provides the understanding of interaction among the five components of the vulnerability context, assets pentagon, livelihoods strategy, and institution and process which influence decision and choice of people to generate livelihood outcome. Livelihoods assets and livelihoods strategy which the community has generated the solution and organized the activities and projects for livelihoods development for example community tourisms, bio-fertilizer production and groundwater banks. The innovation for inclusive development by diversity of partnership and the role of participatory development has a significant implication for sustainable livelihoods and capacity development of this case study

Economic security and development: the impacts of Inca Inchi contract-farming as an agricultural business model in Kachin state, Myanmar

Title: Economic security and development: the impacts of Inca Inchi contract-farming as an agricultural business model in Kachin state, Myanmar

Author: Zaw Ban

Year: 2018

Keywords: Human Security, Development, Inca Inchi Contract-Farming, Social and Economic Impacts

Themes: Human development and Human security, Development Management, Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: In Myanmar, Inca Inchi is one of the new economic businesses that made changes to the agriculture sector with both its advantages to the quality of life of the people and a high selling price which generates an economic benefit. This study tries to explore the overall social and economic impact that Inca Inchi contract-farming as a business model has had on the security and development specifically for the farmers who signed the contracts with the Inca Inchi companies in the Kachin state, Myanmar. Sample size in Myitkyina Township represented total population. Quantitative data collection method based on primary data collection from private company, along with qualitative method utilized opened-ended questions which were given to respondents. The findings were divided into three major parts, and each part’s conclusions was determined from records by surveys, focus groups discussion and semi-structure interviews. The primary respondents were famers who planted Inca Inchi in Kachin State, along with the other stakeholders from contracting companies, local government officers, officers from Non-Government Organizations, and local church leaders. Findings covered changes during times beginning with the premier time before the entering of Inca Inchi contract farming to villages highlighted into three economics, social, and politic situations of villages, how the business strategized and got into the villages, cost and benefits and changes that have occurred since the commencement of the contract farming into the villages. The study has revealed that even though the Inca Inchi contract farming would contribute to the over development of not only the farmers who are engaged in the Inca Inchi farming, but would benefit the larger community, which as the study has shown, had an adverse impact for the farmers who got into the Inca Inchi contract-farming due to lack of oversight from the government. Lastly, the researcher disclosed obstructions, suggested solutions, and relationship analysis among five institutions. Recommendations have been made and also suggestions that may be guided for further research on the contract-farming business model so as not to have the same situation as before for the farmers who have been involved in the Inca Inchi contract-farming. Key Words: Human Security/Development/Inca Inchi Contract-Farming/Social and Economic Impacts.

Human security and the Bangkok sex industry : Farang tourist's perceptions on human security in Bangkok's Lower Sukhumvit

Title: Human security and the Bangkok sex industry : Farang tourist's perceptions on human security in Bangkok's Lower Sukhumvit

Author: Larry Robert Cook

Year: 2014

Keywords: HUMAN SECURITY

Themes: Human development and Human security, Gender, Human Rights

Advisor(s): Soravis Jayanama

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Thailand’s tourism industry has spurred its economic growth over the past 50 years and sex tourism has spurred the tourism industry in both economic and infrastructure development. Thailand has enacted multiple legislations that criminalize prostitution and penalize specific violators, all of which have made little change in the prevalence of the sex industry and human security remains lacking for sex workers in a 6.5 Billion USD per year industry. A comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of economic and personal security (human security) and perceptions of a distinct population of western men helps to formulate western perceptions, behaviors and ultimately western investments in and tourism to Thailand. To fulfill the consistent need for workers to satisfy that consumption, exploitation and the lack of human security for sex workers is often prevalent. Once aspects of human security are understand by western male tourists ; a small portion abstains, a portion will become aware and report future violations and a large portion portrays little immediate behavior modification. With this understanding, sustainable strategies can be developed to mitigate adverse effects that perceptions have on the tourism industry and thus, decrease demand and ultimately increase human security for the sex worker.

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

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

Author: Tananchon Suttichuay

Year: 2013

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

Themes: Human development and Human security, Disaster and Crisis Management, Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Naruemon Thabchumpon

The full thesis available here.

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

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

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

Author: April Kyu Kyu

Year: 2013

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

Themes: Human development and Human security, Environmental Politics and Policy, Human Rights, Civil society and Democracy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

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

Transboder rubber investment and its implications on food security in Lao PDR : A case study of Thai rubber plantations in Atsaphone, Savannakhet province

Title: Transboder rubber investment and its implications on food security in Lao PDR : A case study of Thai rubber plantations in Atsaphone, Savannakhet province

Author: Sawapa Tangsawapak

Year: 2011

Keywords: RUBBER PLANTATIONS, THAI INVESTMENT, FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT, POLITICAL ECOLOGY, LAO PDR

Themes: Human development and Human security, Environmental Politics and Policy, Development Management

Advisor(s): Vira Somboon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Lao PDR is a resource rich but cash poor country where approximately 80% of the population live in rural areas and are subsistence or semi-subsistence farmers, the majority of whom still rely on agriculture and other natural resources for food production to satisfy their dietary needs. Industrial tree plantations, including rubber, have been promoted to the Government of Lao PDR to champion poverty eradication in Lao PDR. Private-sector actors from Thailand, China and Vietnam are all investors in rubber plantations in Lao PDR. To understand changes in rural food security, it is critical to study the changes in land tenure, access to natural resources and other social changes within host communities as a result of foreign direct investments (FDI) in rubber plantations in Lao PDR. Thaihua Rubber has made its rubber plantation investments in five provinces in Lao PDR including Don Kuang plantation, the area of the case study. The establishment of Don Kuang affected four villages including Kan Tiew village in Atsaphone District, Savannakhet Province. The study investigates how government, private sector, and civil society actors and the community themselves interact within the process of Thai transborder rubber investment in Lao PDR, and ultimately how this process accounts for and affects food security in Kan Tiew village using the political ecology approach. Findings reveal how Don Kuang plantation have caused changes which include land tenure security, decline in Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) in Kan Tiew village and particularly the sub-standard contract conditions of Kan Tiew plantation households with the company have caused vulnerability to food insecurity. However, there are other factors causing the vulnerability beyond these immediate changes including the corporate behaviour of Thaihua Rubber and the process of its rubber investments in Lao PDR where the politics of power overriding the need to lessen the social and environmental impact on the ground and hence discounting food security. Given the growth of industrial plantation development in Lao PDR could not be reverted, the resultant food insecurity condition may eventually also threaten other aspects of human security.

The impact of organic rice contract farming on farmers' livelihood and land tenure in Cambodia : a case study in Kampong Speu province

Title: The impact of organic rice contract farming on farmers' livelihood and land tenure in Cambodia : a case study in Kampong Speu province

Author: Betti Rosita Sari

Year: 2010

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Human development and Human security, Environmental Politics and Policy, Development Management

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This study examines organic rice contract farming in Cambodia and its impact on farmers‟ livelihood and land tenure. The study‟s objective is to gain a better insight of the terms and conditions of rice contract farming scheme in Cambodia, and determine under what conditions contract farming could bring improvements to farmers‟ livelihoods and strengthen land tenure security. This study contributes new research findings on farmers‟ livelihood and land ownership changes due to organic-rice contract farming with a case study in Kampong Speu province, Cambodia. Rice contract farming is not widespread in Cambodia at present, but is expected to expand significantly in the near future. Contract farming can increase investment into agricultural and infrastructure in rural areas. Contract farming can also enable farmers to access credit, inputs, technical advice and information about market condition and pricing trends. Yet, the disadvantages of contract farming include loss of farmer bargaining power and a potential reduction in profit margins, increased emphasis on improving production quality, land consolidation in favor of participating contract farmers, and less secure livelihoods. In this study, the contract farming arrangements of Angkor Kasekam Rongroeung (AKR) Company is studied. A survey of 16 contract farmers and 20 non-contract farmers in Kampong Speu province has been undertaken to examine the AKR contract farming scheme arrangements and to identify farmer‟s motivations to participate in contract farming and the costs, benefits and changes in the community. AKR rice contract farming improves farmers‟ livelihood because they get a higher income and rice yields. Higher price, good rice seed, and access to market are the main reasons for farmers to participate in AKR contract farming. However, strict requirements, heavy penalties, poor extension services, and lack of information about the contract terms and conditions reduce farmers‟ long-term participation in contract farming. In addition, contract farmers have less bargaining power to negotiate with the company due to the absence of a farmer association. The AKR contract farming does not strengthen farmers‟ land tenure, but deforestation has been widespread in the villages studied due to the expansion of land under (contract) cultivation. Overall, the status of contract farming in Cambodia clearly points to the great potential for its expansion in the future. However, for this to be realized and for the benefits to be shared fairly between companies and the farmers themselves, the study concludes that issues about the role of the government, the regulatory framework, contract enforcement, the land tenure system and the formation of small-scale farmer organizations must all be addressed.

Application of the human security framework to the impact assessment of Sambor Dam project in Cambodia

Title: Application of the human security framework to the impact assessment of Sambor Dam project in Cambodia

Author: Eunkyong Park

Year: 2010

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Human development and Human security, Environmental Politics and Policy, Development Management

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Although the Human Security (HS) framework has been proposed for quite some years now, attempts to apply the framework to actual developmental projects haven’t been widespread. The concept of a Human Security Impact Assessment (HSIA) is emerging as a new tool to determine the costs and benefits of development projects in a multi-disciplinary way using the Human Security framework, although the HSIA has not been used extensively to date and has never been used to evaluate a dam project. In fact, the range of costs and benefits of large dams have never been analyzed using the Human Security framework. This study does not attempt to do a HSIA, but it is an attempt to test whether it is feasible to use the HSIA tool for a proposed dam project, and also asks whether it would be useful to do so. For a successful and useful HSIA, the study considers that there are three mandatory pre-requisites to be met, namely: being able to determine the current human security situation of the target community; being able to predict the potential impacts of the development project on the community's human security; and the endorsement and support of stakeholders to undertake a HSIA 4 villages in Sambor, Kratie province in Cambodia were interviewed to measure the current HS status. Also, the external stakeholders such as NGOs, Governmental agencies and International organizations were interviewed to find out their current understanding and perception on Sambor community and the proposed Sambor dam, and to anticipate whether a HSIA would be possibly conducted for the Sambor dam project. This study demonstrates that it is possible and would be useful to undertake a HSIA for the Sambor dam project because it will help stakeholders to see the impacts in a more holistic way and to design better projects with a decreased possibility of unfavorable consequences. There certainly is enough information and knowledge existing from the all stakeholders if they are synthesized together to undertake an assessment of the current human security situation in the Sambor area and to anticipate the changes to human security if the proposed Sambor dam is built. However, for a successful HSIA, the current limitations and barriers should be addressed including lack of resources and lack motivation to share information.

Special Economic Zone Project Assessment in Savannakhet, Lao PDR: An Application of Human Security Framework

Title: Special Economic Zone Project Assessment in Savannakhet, Lao PDR: An Application of Human Security Framework

Author: Vaughan, Robert

Year: 2006

Keywords: N/A

Themes: Human development and Human security, Development Management, Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Ora-orn Poocharoen

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Special Economic Zone Project Assessment in Savannakhet, Lao PDR: An Application of Human Security Framework