Land Tenure Conflict Management between the Government and Ethnic Groups: Hmong Hilltribe People, Khao Kho District, Phetchabun Province

Abstract

This research is an applied study with three objectives: 1) to examine the context of the Hmong hill tribe community in Khek Noi Subdistrict, Khao Kho District, Phetchabun Province; 2) to understand Khao Kho District itself in Phetchabun Province and the government sector; and 3) to identify key factors in resolving conflicts between the Hmong hill tribe community and the government sector.

The findings related to these objectives revealed that 1) this Meng hill tribe community is a large Mangkhanat tribe community. It is a slum area with a unique history, language, culture, traditions, habits, and beliefs, alongside the spread of various religions, including Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam. 2) The main factors contributing to the conflict include: 2.1) State land ownership managed by the Crown Property Bureau, with communities claiming ownership.
2.2) Interference in political matters at both the national and local levels. 2.3) Capitalist groups seeking to exploit the area. Regarding objective 3) The factors for resolving the issues are:
3.1) Supporting and promoting all forms of community economy based on strong tribal culture and providing equal, high-quality education focused on human security. 3.2) Enforcing the law by giving opportunities to those who have lived there before to rent the land they claim ownership of.