Southeast Asia is often seen as a regional leader in global development and innovation. The pace of economic growth in the region is unmatched, which is often made possible through a formidable government apparatus, access to education, robust public health systems, and regional trade policies. However, the consequences of ‘growth’ as development throughout Asia are starting to be felt. Regional inequalities and multidimensional poverty are becoming more apparent, which are often made worse by climate change.

Despite disparities in the global system, local grassroots actions are starting to shift local priorities and uphold regional environmental conservation, human rights and social justice to prioritize the livelihoods of residents. 

During this intensive two-month field program, students will gain an in-depth understanding of the global geopolitical system that guides local development and international policy, as well as learn directly from those living in communities facing these challenges firsthand. We will explore various participatory approaches to development, governance, and community building in cooperation with local partners. This will include learning directly from those working to protect indigenous knowledge, cultures, and practices. Through an intellectually and physically rigorous schedule of cultural study, intercultural interactions, and reflection, the course promises to be both unique and transformative. 

What will you do in Southeast Asia?

Each day will look different, and we will let local partners guide our day-to-day schedule, and we will change our itinerary accordingly. We plan to begin our studies in Thailand, where you will learn about development in Southeast Asia and the geopolitics that guide the region. We will visit various multilateral and local agencies, utilize case study analysis tools to investigate the realities of development, and be introduced to local culture, history, and language. Chiang Mai University will serve as a hub through our partnership with the Regional Center for Social Science and Sustainable Development (RCSD), where we will collaborate with faculty and students. 

You will then have the opportunity to learn from indigenous communities in Thailand through our partnership with IMPECT. You will live and learn with folks working to preserve local resources, livelihoods and culture, and gain a unique perspective on conservation and grassroots activism.

After our time in Thailand, we will travel to Vietnam and learn about participatory approaches to community development and environmental conservation. Local leaders will be our guide and teach us about the participatory strategies they have used to develop their own communities while preserving the environment and maintaining strong community ties. Discussion will focus on how community-based initiatives have started to create more systemic change through policy and development initiatives. Homestays and direct exchange with local university partners will be a key aspect of this portion of the course, and you will learn firsthand from our rich network of partners in the region. 

Finally, you will put what you have learned into practice by conducting community-based research and co-producing social action projects to build your own partnerships for systemic change.