Approaches to Socioeconomic Revival in the Thailand-Cambodia Landmine Border Area: A Case Study of Sakaeo, Chanthaburi and Trat Provinces

Abstract

The research paper is a part of doctoral dissertation entitle : Approaches to Socioeconomic Revival in the Thailand-Cambodia Landmine Border Area: A Case Study of Sakaeo, Chanthaburi and Trat Provinces. This paper aims to study the management of landmines in post- war zone along Thailand’s eastern border. The research employs qualitative approach. The methodology involves hypotheses and frameworks designed from grounded theory study. The research methods included in-depth interviews and oral history interviews by collecting data from specific case studies in the area, namely, Thakam Subdistrict, Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo Province. Thepnimit Subdisrict Pong Nam Ron District, Chanthaburi Province and Laem Klat Subdistrict, Mueang Distict, Trat Province. The results of the research show that mine management in Sa Kaeo Province is the responsibility of the First Humanitarian Mine Action Unit., while the management in Chanthaburi and Trat Provinces is the responsibility of the Second Humanitarian Mine Action Unit as cooperated with Royal Thai Navy in collaboration with an international non-government organization. The NGOs teamed up with the Units provides technical project consultants, implement research and development facility and budget support, also liaise with various parties in the minefield involved in landmine clearing and management. Furthermore, mine management processes are as follows: 1)personnel requires training before operations to build skills in mine knowledge techniques and methods of operation 2) field visits to search and abolish the mines in the target area and 3) reporting on the results of operations to ensure a safe area from landmines. Considering the process of mine management by the Thai government in cooperation with international organization under the Ottawa Treaty (1997), the safe minefield have been developed into areas which create opportunities for border trade permitting business sectors and border sellers to take advantage of the area. However, in the process of working, several network partners are essential to participate in the planning and operation stage, for instance communities, local government body, mine victims, etc.