ABOUT THE JOURNAL | Journal of Thai Studies

Aims and Scope:

The Journal of Thai Studies is a leading and long-established academic journal dedicated to disseminating insights and advancing the understanding of Thai and Tai communities. First published in print since 2004, we transitioned to a fully online platform for both submission and publication in 2022, ensuring greater accessibility and efficiency. Additionally, we are in the process of digitizing and providing access to our past printed editions from 2012, making our archives easily available for researchers and scholars.

Over the years, we have published nearly 300 high-quality academic papers contributed by a diverse range of experts, including members of the Royal Academic Institute, university lecturers and researchers, local scholars, and members of non-profit organizations (NGOs).

As an open-access journal, we are committed to promoting knowledge in Thai and Tai Studies while providing a supportive platform for Thai scholars. Therefore, our journal is free of charge for both submission and readership. Articles are published in Thai, accompanied by extended English abstracts, references to meet international academic standards and attract a wider audience.

The Journal of Thai Studies is published biannually (June and December), featuring six to eight articles per volume. We encourage multidisciplinary research that integrates both local and global perspectives, expanding the academic discourse on Thai and Tai communities.

While our core focus includes the following four themes, we welcome submissions on any topic broadly related to Thai Studies that align with our mission:

1.Thai-Tai Language and Literature

This theme explores the linguistic and literary traditions of Thai-Tai communities, including (but not limited to) historical language development, regional dialects, and language preservation. We welcome studies on oral literature, classical texts, folklore, contemporary Thai literature, and linguistic changes influenced by globalization. Comparative analyses of Thai-Tai languages in the broader Southeast Asian context are also encouraged.

2.Thai-Tai Culture and Anthropology

Focusing on the diverse cultural expressions and social structures of Thai-Tai communities, this theme covers traditional customs, rituals, folklore, kinship systems, performance arts, material culture, and indigenous knowledge. We encourage anthropological and ethnographic studies that examine the adaptation of traditions in modern Thai society, including the influence of urbanization, migration, and digital culture.

3.Manuscript and Religion Studies

This theme explores the historical and cultural significance of manuscripts, inscriptions, and religious texts within Thai-Tai heritage. We welcome research on palm-leaf manuscripts, temple inscriptions, Buddhist scriptures, and animist beliefs, as well as the evolving role of religion in contemporary Thai society.

In addition to historical studies, we encourage research on the modern reinterpretation of religious texts, particularly in relation to Humanistic Buddhism, meditation practices, mindfulness, and well-being. Studies examining how Buddhist philosophy informs contemporary ethical thought, mental health, and social harmony are especially valued.

4.Current Issues and Trends in Thai Society

This theme examines Thailand's ongoing socioeconomic and cultural transformations, providing a platform for discussions on urbanization, digital media, public policy, and youth culture. Special attention is given to the intersection of tradition and modernity in shaping Thailand’s evolving landscape.

We also welcome interdisciplinary research that explores these changes through the lens of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Studies that highlight innovative approaches to sustainable development, social inclusion, and policy adaptation are particularly encouraged.

Types of articles:

Articles included in the journal fall into two general types:

Research articles:

Research articles deliver concise reports on specific research findings or significant issues within the areas of Thai and Tai language, literature, culture, anthropology, manuscripts, religion studies and current issues in Thai society. Each article must contribute original knowledge to the discipline and present a clear research objective, detailed methodology, study content, results and conclusions.

Academic articles:

Academic articles will investigate unique study topics in the areas listed above through scholarly inquiry, ranging from comprehensive literature reviews to in-depth historical case studies. Authors are encouraged to study the unique characteristics and identity of Thai and Tai cultural. In all cases, authors must present their methodologies, historical evidence and comprehensive insights, offering findings that enhance the research landscape and contribute new knowledge the field of study.

Language:

Thai

The journal currently only accepts manuscripts in the Thai language that focus on subjects within the scope of the journal and adhere to academic writing standards. Reference is made to the author guidelines for further details.

Publication Fees:

The journal does not charge authors any fees to publish their articles.

Open Access Policy:

The Institute of Thai Studies is committed to promoting broad dissemination and accessibility of research on Thai and Tai subjects. Accordingly, the content of the journal is provided on an open access basis that allows readers to read and download online articles free of charge.

Ownership and Management:

Journal of Thai Studies is owned and sponsored by Chulalongkorn University, with the Institute of Thai Studies, Chulalongkorn University responsible for the publication of the journal.

Publisher:

Institute of Thai Studies, Chulalongkorn University is responsible for the preparation and publication of the Journal of Thai Studies.

Tel. +66 22218-7494

E-mail: chula.its.journal@gmail.com

Copyright and Licensing:

Authors are required to transfer the copyright of their articles to the Journal of Thai Studies to ensure complete copyright protection of their work and to allow for appropriate distribution of the articles through print and electronic media. Proper citation of the original publication is essential and authors must obtain approval from the journal. Authors are also responsible for obtaining permission to reproduce any copyrighted material from other sources.

Revenue Sources:

The Chulalongkorn University fully supports the journal production process to ensuring high publication standards, including funding for peer-review. However, this source of funding has no influence on the decisions of the editorial board with respect to the review or publications of articles.

Advertising:

As part of its policy, the journal does not accept funding through advertisements. Information related to academic conferences, the journal or research studies may be shared on the journal’s official website, as appropriate. However, no content that might compromise the ethical standards of the journal will be included.

Direct Marketing:

The journal refrains from direct marketing activities as part of its policy. Calls for articles, promotion of the journal and related activities are announced through the journal’s official website, social media platforms or those of related organizations.