Participation in Land Reform of the Poor and the Disadvantaged: A Case Study of Community Rights in Northeastern Thailand

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to study the sources of the rights of the rural communities, capitalism in economic development, and guidelines for the poor and the disadvantaged to participate in land reform. The research methodology was qualitative by means of documentary studies, in-depth interviews and participant observation. It was revealed that the rights of the people in the communities were resulted from the assembling of people, the existence of social rights and responsibility as well as the rights and freedom for planning, resources and environment arrangement which was suitable for the ecosystem. Capitalism and government policy without participation from the other parties caused land rights and land reform problems. It was suggested that the state should provide a chance for the poor and the disadvantaged to from a strong network organization. There should be land reform by means of specification of land use areas to make new plan for land use by land data base and participation by communities and other organizations concerned.