COMMUNITY WATER MANAGEMENT CHARTER: BUDDHIST INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT PROCESSES BY LOCAL LEADERS TO ADDRESS CONFLICTS IN THE MAE KAM RIVER BASIN, MUEANG PHRAE DISTRICT, PHRAE PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aims to study and analyze the conflict situation in water management among communities in the Mae Kham River Basin, Mueang Phrae District, Phrae Province. This research is a participatory action research. The research population consists of 54,600 people residing in the Mae Kham River Basin, Mueang Phrae District, Phrae Province. 60 key informants were selected. The research tools used were: 1) 3 sets of in-depth interview questionnaires; 2) 3 types of observation forms; 3) 3 types of field notes; 4) 2 audio recorders; 5) 2 cameras; and 6) documents. The research findings revealed four key findings regarding the conflict situation in water management among communities in the Mae Kham River Basin: Firstly, the conflict in the Mae Kham River Basin is a structural conflict embedded in the geographical system, and in the production and government water allocation policies. Secondly, each sub-district has significantly different contexts and problems, making a single solution impossible. Thirdly, the Mae Kham Reservoir is in a 4-year transition period, requiring flexible and adaptable water management charters based on water availability. And fourthly, The participation and bargaining power of each sub-district with government agencies are unequal. The solution is to use Buddhist principles to create a community water management charter that emphasizes participation and wisdom as the foundation for fair resource allocation. This shifts from conflict to a systematic water sharing system under community rules accepted by all. This leads to harmony and an awareness of the value of water resources, following the Buddhist approach to peaceful governance.