2006 Volume 46 Issue 2 Pages 167-182
Decentralization is one of the important issues that Thailand has emphasized recently. The Thai government has established a Sub-district organization to decentralize authority and delegate responsibilities from central to local levels, namely, Sub-district Administrative Organization (Ao.Bo.To.-in Thai). Even if the decentralization process is going on, Ao.Bo.To. is becoming a management body in coastal resource management at local level. Local people are encouraged to be involved in the decision making process for community development and the self-management of local resources within their own territory.
In the case of KhaoThong Sub-District, Krabi Province, the Ao.Bo.To. and local people cooperate together in terms of development for their community. The leaders of the villages and the Sub-district have the authority to monitor both land and sea boundaries, according to the announcement of the proclaimed area by the Sub-district authority. They can enforce measures against any illegal activities by following the appropriate laws. Therefore, boundary self-management is set up to protect their coastal area and local resources. This study focuses on the mechanism that makes cooperation between the Ao.Bo.To. and local people efficient in community development. The practical process of planning derives from agreement of all related occupation groups in the community. The people can participate in community development by discussion to arrive at a consensus on management measures. Lessons learned from this case study will delineate the mechanism that will effect the cooperation between the Ao.Bo.To. and local people in their community development and also in coastal resource management.
