The Transforming Isan

Politics and Governance in Northeast Thailand

This open access book presents a comprehensive examination of the evolving political and administrative landscape in Thailand’s northeastern region, also collectively referred to as Isan, amid contemporary global challenges.

This open access book presents a comprehensive examination of the evolving political and administrative landscape in Thailand’s northeastern region, also collectively referred to as Isan, amid contemporary global challenges. Key areas of investigation include economic corridor development along the Mekong region, transboundary water management politics, organizational practices in local institutions, indigenous knowledge in conflict resolution, sustainable development initiatives, and public sector reform. The analysis reveals how Isan navigates between great power competition while addressing critical environmental and socio-economic challenges. Drawing on exte