This paper aims at exploring the local background
of and solutions to the forest conflict in upland
areas inhabited by ethnic minorities, who are called hill
tribes, in northern Thailand. A so-called hill tribe problem
has been officially identified as a result of the slash-andburn
cultivation and other perceived problems, such as
opium poppy cultivation, illegal immigration, and the
suspicion of disloyalty to the state. This has created distrust
and tension between the groups and authorities. The local
conflict has recently been related to the dilemma of conserving
the forest from all human interference, while many
people live and make their livelihood within and adjacent
to the protected areas. Furthermore, as the results imply,
strictly protected areas and reforestation have also
increased the competition over land and natural resources
and, thereby, the likelihood of local conflicts. The scarcity
and pollution of water, illegal logging, and poor fire control
have contributed to the conflicts between local communities.
The conflicts between the local communities and
officials have been nourished by political and public discussions.
Using definitions and terms with negative
connotations and ignoring the heterogeneity between the
groups or labeling some groups as malevolent have
increased distrust and strengthened existing stereotypical
images. Conflict resolution starts with efforts toward better mutual understanding, and changes in structures and attitudes
are necessary. Local cooperation, utilization of
traditional methods, and local institutions are central to
conflict solving.