A STUDY OF ROLES OF CIVIL SOCIETY, PRIVATE SECTOR AND PUBLIC SECTOR FOR ORGANIC AGRICULTURAL POLICY IMPLEMENTATION: A CASE STUDY OF ORGANIC RICE IN THAILAND’S LOWER NORTHEASTERN REGION

Abstract

           The objectives of this research article were to 1) studying the development of organic rice cultivation promotion and the roles related sectors in implementing organic rice cultivation promotional policies in Lower Northeastern provinces; and  2) studying the models for implementing policies to promote organic rice cultivation in three provinces. The study involved qualitative research based on interviewing the representatives of civil society organizations who producing organic rice continuously, the representatives of private sectors who are buyers and exporters of organic rice, and the representatives of public sectors related to organic rice promoting. In addition, observation and relevant documents were also applied. The research utilized the interpretation of the data acquiring from interviews and documents, and validated data by applying the triangulation method. The findings indicate that 1) in the earlier organic rice and agriculture was leaded by the civil society and private sectors, then it was supported by the provincial policies of some governors. The national organic agricultural development strategies were formulated later. 2) The roles of civil society and the private and public sectors play a great role in promoting completely organic rice, although the public sector switched to the promotion of organic agriculture later on. However, civil society and the private sector still have more expertise than the public sector in using their experience in marketing to lead production, marketing channels, complete knowledge of organic agriculture, shortages of workforce, as well as collaboration between NGOs and the public sector. The findings also indicate that the continuity of provincial organic rice promotion, provincial policy implementation structure, marketing strength and the ability of farmers all affect the sustainability of organic rice cultivation and the expansion of organic rice cultivation area.