Gender and water resource use and management in Sai Yok National Park, Kanchanaburi, Thailand | |
| Author | Zhao, Jingnan |
| Call Number | AIT Thesis no.GD-09-04 |
| Subject(s) | Water-supply--Thailand--Kanchanaburi Water resources development--Thailand--Kanchanaburi Women in community development--Thailand--Kanchanaburi |
| Note | A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Gender and Development Studies, School of Environment, Resources and Development |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Series Statement | Thesis ; no. GD-09-04 |
| Abstract | This research study explores gendered community-based water resource management, and women's participation under socio-economic and cultural factors, in two villages: (1) Ban Ton Mamuang village and (2). Ban Chai Thung village, in Sai Yok Cluster, Kanchanaburi province, Thailand. The study first examines the gender division of labor in water use and management. Second, it assesses women's participation in water resource management, both in Water User Group (WUG) and inside their households. Third, it identifies constrains that hinders women from participating in community based water resource management. Qualitative and quantitative research method was used for data analysis. These included key informants interviews, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, observation, survey, and secondary literature. This study reveals the existence and practice of gender divisions of labor in community-based water resource use and management, in Sai Yok Cluster. Women are marginalized from decision-making in every section of water use, including gathering water, distribution of water and water savings. Even at the organized level of the Water User Group, women are excluded from decision-making. Gender norms, women's lack of technological knowledge all prevent women from full participation in community water management. The research recommends an urgent improvement of water supply systems, both for agricultural and domestic use in the cluster. The study recommends empowering women through provision of trainings in water use and management; specifically in operation of electric generator and purification of drinking water. To further encourage the empowerment of women, different strategies should be adopted to ensure effectiveness. It is proposed that the number of female members in proportion to men be increased in the village management committee. Capacity building for women will lead to improved self confidence of women and better achievements in this area. Lastly, future development projects for the cluster, should take into account both logistical feasibility of community participation in training activities, which may be influence by other economic and social/cultural responsibilities in order to reap optimal success |
| Year | 2009 |
| Corresponding Series Added Entry | Asian Institute of Technology. Thesis ; no. GD-09-04 |
| Type | Thesis |
| School | School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD) |
| Department | Department of Development and Sustainability (DDS) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Gender and Development Studies (GD) |
| Chairperson(s) | Resurreccion, Bernadette P.; |
| Examination Committee(s) | Schmidt-Vogt, Dietrich;Doneys, Philippe; |
| Degree | Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2009 |