From the Legacy of Historical Conflicts to Community Wildfire Management in Chiang Rai Province

Author : Nathaporn Thaijongrak, Supanat Pana, Chudech Losiri, Wuttichai Boonpook, Asamaporn Sitthi, Pakorn Meksangsouy

Abstract :Chiang Rai Province in northern Thailand has a complex history influenced by both domestic and international events, notably the asylum of the 93rd Kuomintang division and the insurgency of the Communist Party of Thailand during the Cold War. This region is marked by a diverse ethnic population, making it the most ethnically varied in Thailand, with these groups often positioned as adversaries to the government. This study explores the relationship between historical conflicts and their impact on local lifestyles, focusing on community forest fire management—an urgent concern for residents. Employing qualitative methods, including historical analysis and interviews with key stakeholders, the research reveals that these historical conflicts have shaped perceptions of ethnic groups within Thai society. Consequently, these communities have independently developed a fire management model rooted in local traditions, enabling them to effectively tackle forest fire challenges without government assistance.

Keywords :Chiang Rai, ethnic diversity, historical conflicts, community forest fire management, qualitative study

Conference Name :International Conference on Politics and History (ICPOLH-24)

Conference Place New York, USA

Conference Date 8th Nov 2024