Social Innovation for Cultivating Strong Community Rooted in Thai Identity Democracy: A Case Study of Chonburi Province as a Pioneer in Eastern Region

Abstract

This study has three primary objectives: firstly, to examine the problematic conditions within Chonburi Province, designated as a pilot area for developing social innovations aimed at fostering a strong community; secondly, to evaluate the social costs associated with public partner networks engaged in creating social innovations to build resilient communities; and thirdly, to explore guidelines for developing social innovations that promote robust community development within Chonburi Province. The study employed qualitative research methods and participatory action research, including field visits, observations, interviews, and group discussions. Data was analyzed and analyzed qualitatively. The findings highlight several significant points: the emergence of a capitalist political economy in Chonburi Province has led to multifaceted issues affecting the general population, including imbalanced development among the state, capital, and local communities, resulting in economic and political inequalities that leave grassroots individuals without negotiating power with the state, capital, and centralized bureaucratic mechanisms. Additionally, public partner networks exhibit strong social capital, fostering diverse networks characterized by mutual support, trust, and a hopeful vision for grassroots democracy, which serve as a pivotal force in driving social empowerment. Moreover, as developmental collaborator, public partner networks emphasize integrated area development in collaboration with partner agencies in Chonburi Province. This collaboration is facilitated through the Provincial Citizens Council, acting as the 'public space' or 'Provincial Citizens Council’ for integrated community development partners to advance the province's development.