Journal of Asia Social Science Studies

A Comparative Study of the Impact of the Drug Suppression Policy and the Policy of Treating Drug Users as Patients: A Case Study of Village-Level in Kanchanaburi Province.

tanaroj lortanapaisan — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study aims to examine and compare the impacts of the drug suppression policy and the policy of treating drug users as patients at the village level in Kanchanaburi Province. It also analyzes the differences in the social and economic impacts resulting from the implementation of both policies in the community, and investigates the opinions and attitudes of the community and stakeholders regarding the outcomes of the policies. The research employs a participatory research method, collecting data through interviews, focus group discussions, and community observations over one year. The findings reveal that the drug suppression policy at the community level can reduce the spread of drugs in the short term but still faces limitations in addressing the problem of drug users in the long term, especially due to the lack of an effective rehabilitation and treatment system. Despite this, community members still desire the continuation of this policy, although the suppression may cause tension in the community and the marginalization of drug users, which affects relationships between community members and stakeholders. On the other hand, the policy of treating drug users as patients received less support from the community, although the idea of rehabilitating drug users and reintegrating them into society was welcomed. The community had a positive attitude towards helping drug users without labeling them as criminals and believed that those who were treated had a chance to return to normal life. A comparison of the social and economic impacts of both policies revealed that the drug suppression policy provided short-term safety but still left the problem of drug users who could not reintegrate into society. Meanwhile, the policy of treating drug users as patients helped reduce social impacts and showed long-term benefits, but it did not lead to a significant reduction in the number of drug users. Both policies have their own advantages and limitations, but a combination of law enforcement and effective, sustainable rehabilitation for drug users could be an effective solution to addressing the drug problem in the community.

Environmental Activism: Lessons from Young Activists for a Sustainable Future

Sarayoot Ratsamee — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article aims to analyze environmental activism by young activists, focusing on their roles, strategies, and impacts at both local and global levels. It begins by discussing the significance of pressing environmental issues, such as climate change and pollution, which are urgent challenges affecting humanity today. The analysis is framed within social movement theories, including Resource Mobilization Theory, Framing Theory, and Political Process Theory, to examine the mechanisms of activism. The case studies presented include global movements such as Fridays for Future and Extinction Rebellion, alongside examples from Thailand, such as youth-led environmental movements and efforts to oppose environmentally damaging projects in local communities. Key lessons from young activists emphasize the use of social media to raise awareness, build transnational networks, and confront challenges such as political and social pressures. The article explores integrated dimensions of activism, including economic impacts, psychological dynamics, the role of digital technologies, and connections to other justice dimensions, such as gender equality and human rights. These discussions lead to policy recommendations that support sustainable activism and develop innovative approaches for structural change at the global level. The findings aim to provide an in-depth understanding of the roles of young activists within the context of environmental challenges, while also highlighting directions for future research to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of environmental solutions.

The Impact of Social and Economic Changes on Education in China

thana chansrisuriya — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Social and economic changes in China have had a significant impact on the country’s education system. Since the economic reforms of the 1980s, the growth of the economy and social transformations have influenced many aspects of education, including public access to education, the development of educational quality, and changes in curriculum and teaching methods. Before the economic reforms, China’s education system was heavily focused on state-run education, with a high level of state control. However, after the opening of the economy, social changes in China led to transformations in the education system, both in terms of quality and accessibility. Education has developed to a higher level, with educational institutions creating new, modern curricula that align with the demands of the labor market. This has impacted the preparation of students for careers in growing industries. Higher education has also been heavily promoted over the past two decades. However, the effects of economic changes have continued to present challenges in education, especially concerning inequality in access to education and the quality of education between urban and rural areas. People in rural areas still face shortages of educational resources, such as insufficient schools, unqualified teachers, and a lack of opportunities to develop necessary skills.Despite efforts to improve education, inequalities remain a major obstacle to the development of China’s education system. The development of education in China must focus on promoting equity in all areas, ensuring that everyone has equal access to educational opportunities and is prepared for the changing world.

The situation of social movements and human rights in the Philippines

jirada bunmechareun — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The situation of social movements and human rights in the Philippines reflects a complex challenge between the struggle for basic rights and the threats posed by the state. In recent years, the Philippines has faced social and political tensions due to government policies that are often criticized for human rights violations. Key social movements in the country include groups advocating for political rights, labor rights, women’s rights, and indigenous peoples' rights. There are also movements calling for an end to violence and oppression, particularly in response to the government’s war on drugs, which has led to a rise in social activism both within the country and abroad, demanding the government be held accountable and stop such violations. Social movements in the Philippines are diverse, with various civil society groups working together. These include women’s groups fighting for political and economic rights, and indigenous groups calling for their right to preserve their land and traditional way of life. Additionally, there are calls for an end to government crackdowns on free speech and press freedom. Despite these efforts, social movements continue to face opposition from the state, which uses strict laws to control political activities, protests, and expressions of public dissent. The struggle for human rights in the Philippines is a long journey, filled with obstacles. While progress has been made in some areas, ensuring the protection of citizens' rights remains an ongoing challenge that requires cooperation between the government and the public to create a just and sustainable society.