Public policy formation for tourism in a natural world heritage site with community network participation: A case study of khao yai national park, Thailand

Abstract

© 2019 The Author(s). The objective of this research is to study the operation of local network participation and process of public policy formation for a Natural World Heritage Site. The target group for the research was ten of Khao Yai's National Park community organizations. The used research method is Participatory Action Research (PAR). Data was collected by methods; focus group discussion, in-depth interviews, and the A-I-C (Appreciation-Influence-Control) process. The data was then analyzed by induction analysis and through the processes of triangulation, the research maintains its reliability. The findings were as follows; (1) the local network participation is a collaboration of local volunteers within the community. Formation of local network derives from two approaches: the public initiative as a supporter and the natural process. (2) Public policy implementation through the announcement of Khao Yai becoming Khao Yai National Park as well as the announcement of Khao Yai National Park becoming a Natural World Heritage Site, which resulted in changes in various areas of the community including social and regulatory policy governing natural resources. In addition, the announcement will result in changes in both the economic and tourism sectors. (3) Public policy regarding tourism in Natural World Heritage Sites that are developed from within the community network proposed in a strategic plan for sustainable tourism growth which includes: 1) strategic plan concerning resources and environment, 2) strategic plan concerning education/law, 3) strategic plan concerning economic and tourism, 4) strategic plan concerning the network development for World Heritage Site.