Examining the impact of social capital on youth participation in community forest governance : a case study of Baan Tha Wangsai community forest in Wang Mi Subdistrict, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand | |
| Author | Pacharamon Boonyanupongsa |
| Call Number | AIT Thesis no.DP-25-01 |
| Subject(s) | Community forestry--Thailand--Citizen participation Young volunteers in community development--Thailand--Case studies |
| Note | A thesis submitted in patial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Development Planning Management and Innovation |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | Community forest governance (CFG) has emerged as a vital approach to sustainable forest management, particularly in developing nations. While CFG can contribute to diverse development goals, the effective participation of all community members, including youth, is crucial for its success. However, youth are perceived to be marginalized in decision-making processes, hindering their potential contributions and impacting the sustainability of CFG. This study aims to investigate the impact of social capital on youth participation in community forest governance. Specifically, it seeks to identify the current level of youth participation, examine the impact of social capital and other factors on youth participation, and explore how youth contributions enhance the sustainability of community forests. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combines survey data from 148 youths with semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions of 25 related actors. Findings reveal a critically low level of youth participation in CFG despite policy mandates encouraging their involvement. Although social capital is substantial, a lack of encouragement for proactive action and an exclusive network and relationship among limited groups hinder youth participation in CFG. This potentially leads to the risk of governance stagnation, diminished resilience, and eventual degradation of forest resources. These results suggest the need to empower youth participation in CFG by revitalizing environmental education, fostering broader networks, strengthening proactive action, and integrating the traditional knowledge of adults and the digital skills of youth to ensure the sustainability of CFG for generations to come. |
| Year | 2025 |
| Type | Thesis |
| School | School of Environment, Resources, and Development |
| Department | Department of Development and Sustainability (DDS) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Development Planning Management and Innovation (DPMI) |
| Chairperson(s) | Thi, Phuoc Lai Nguyen |
| Examination Committee(s) | Shrestha, Rajendra Prasad;Vilas Nitivattananon |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | Her Majesty the Queen's Scholarships (Thailand) |
| Degree | Thesis (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2025 |