Abstract:
The purpose of this qualitative research was to study and model experiences of disparity,
and resistance, and the formation and establishment of social innovation by dual non-citizens
along the Thailand-Myanmar border, Kanchanaburi Province. This study was grounded in the
methods and concepts of phenomenology, and was based on a review of the literature and on field
research. The key informants were dual non-citizens, representatives of civil society organizations,
local government organizations, community leaders, and other community members in the area of
Sangklaburi and Tamaka District, Kanchanaburi Province. The findings of this inquiry indicated
that dual non-citizens face disparity that was shown through oppressive, obstruction, negative
attitudes, and exclusion. These hardships also brought the key informants to new realizations and
inspired them to innovate in order to make a better life for themselves. The key informants showed
resistance in refusing to accept defeat, to allow their identities and feelings to be suppressed,
forging new identities to bring about harmony and reproducing symbolic violence. Social
Innovations were established in various activities such as a saving group and credit, health
volunteering, religious and cultural activities which became social capital that indicated a social
network, social norms, and mutual trust. Living standard improvements has been shown
satisfactorily through feeling of being, belonging and becoming.