Abstract:
This thesis examines the emergence and development of the Anti-Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Movement and analyzes its current situation using the theoretical framework of Resource Mobilization Theory. The study reveals that the Eastern Economic Corridor Development Project was initiated in 2016 under the government of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), utilizing the special power granted by section 44 of the 2014 interim constitution to establish and implement the project. This gave rise to the Anti-EEC Movement, which advocates for the project's cessation or postponement. The movement operates within a political context that can be divided into two periods: Authoritarianism from 2016 to 2018 and Competitive Authoritarianism following the election in 2019. The Political Opportunity Structure plays a crucial role in shaping the movement's strategies and direction, particularly during the period of Authoritarianism characterized by limited political rights for the movement. Although it seems that an opportunity for the movement has emerged after the election, the state maintained centralized decision-making authority, leading to the irreversible progression of the project and subsequently diminishing the movement's demands. However, the movement achieved success by exerting pressure on the state, resulting in an accelerated review of new town plans in 30 districts and granting local communities the opportunity to express their opinions. Although the intensity of the movement has subsided since 2020, it remains active as different regions continue their mobilization efforts, experiencing varying degrees of success or setbacks.