Alternative Perspectives on Urban Governance: The Views of Local People in the Border Special Economic Zone, Thailand

Abstract

Special Economic Zone has been promoted on economic growth but it is a driver of border city growth. Power, resources and knowledge imbalance between different stakeholders are a problem in administration. This paper investigates effective urban governance from the perspective of the local stakeholders. A phenomenological method was chosen for this research. Data collection tools included in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Their perspectives of urban governance in the context of rapid urban growth are reducing the control of the central government, and collaboration among muti-stakeholders.