Special Economic Zones: Impacts and Community Struggles in Bunrueng, Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai

Abstract

The designation of Boonruang Community Forest in Chiang Khong District as part of establishing an industrial estate under the government's Special Economic Zone (SEZ) policy has led to conflicts between the state and residents. From the government's perspective, the development of the Chiang Khong SEZ is a key instrument to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and foster economic growth. Consequently, transforming the community forest area, which the state views as "idle land" that does not generate economic revenue, into infrastructure to support cross-border trade and investment is perceived as a means to create new economic opportunities and bring prosperity to the border region.

While the villagers perceive Boonruang Forest as more than just a forest—a culturally significant area intertwined with their way of life—they exercise their Community Rights to protect and preserve their resources through various strategies. These included establishing the Boonruang Forest Conservation Group, compiling and presenting knowledge about the community forest through research, performing rituals and traditional practices to signify their bond with the forest, and conducting symbolic activities such as protests and public forums. They also collaborated with national and international environmental organizations to strengthen their efforts.

The community's determination brought widespread attention to the issue of conserving Boonruang Community Forest, ultimately pressuring the government to reconsider and halt the establishment of an industrial estate in the area. This victory highlights the power of communities to resist state authority and choose a development path that balances resource conservation with sustainable self-determination.