Authors : Monchai Phongsiri, Maniemai Thongyou and Yaowalak Apichatvullop
Abstract: Nearly all the livelihood strategies available to the Returning Thai Diaspora (RTD) in the areas of research are limited due to Thai legal prohibitions. Hence, ‘informal sector’ employment is the only accessible economy that enables the RTD to survive within Thai society. Meanwhile, ‘risk’ is considered as an important factor for them when choosing their livelihood strategies. They are trapped in an ‘entitlement failure’, bringing about a lack of command over assets and resources. Therefore, they cannot transform their own assets or accessible resources into livelihood capital. Their livelihood strategies limit them to just ‘survive’, being unable to achieve the ultimate goal of ‘sustainability.’ Policy makers should be aware of these problems and accelerate resolutions according to the Nationality Act (the 5th Amendment) B.E. 2555 (2012) which provides opportunities for the RTD to restore their Thai nationality. That will enable the RTD as well as receiving the benefits of Thai citizenship to access more capital such as political capital, etc. in order to sustain their livelihoods. This study aims to explore the livelihood strategies of the RTD in Thai society. Qualitative data were collected via in-depth interviews, observations and small group discussions. Key informants consisted of household heads from within the RTD as well as senior members of the RTD who are familiar with the history of the diasporic movement, the mainstay of the RTD network, household heads of ordinary Thai families who live in the same community and both government and non-government officers involved in the research areas in PrachuapKhiri Khan and Ranong Provinces.
Monchai Phongsiri, Maniemai Thongyou and Yaowalak Apichatvullop, 2016. Informal Sector: Survival Strategies of the Returning Thai Diaspora in Thai Society. International Business Management, 10: 391-396.