Land Conflicts of Banthat Mountain Range Trang Province

Abstract

This research article aimed to explain land conflicts along the Banthat mountain range in Trang province during 1961-2015. Data were obtained through related literature, an in-depth interview with 216 people, an informal interview with the people involved in land conflicts, 23 participatory meetings, and engaging in activities organized in the area.

The results showed that land conflicts along the Banthat mountain range in Trang province arose as a result of contradictory views regarding land management between the local community and the government. As the lands managed by the government were declared as protected forest areas, they appear to have affected the people’s living, which is unacceptable for the local community. On the other hand, the approach to self-management of lands proposed by the local community was also inadmissible to the government that has continued its law enforcement. This issue has therefore led to conflicts between the government and the local community.