Lignite and Controversy over Natural Resources in Ban Bom Subdistrict, Mae Tha District Lampang Province

Abstract

This article aims to analyze and understand the situation between 2020-2022 that results in competition for natural resources in the region by relevant stakeholders. This research used qualitative research methods. The educational process is determined by documentary research and data collection using participant observation, Filed Observation and In-depth Interview from key informant, a person or group of people who play a role and have a stake in the study area. The content is then analyzed through the lens of Antonio Gramsci's Integral State concept and the results of the analysis are presented in the form of a description.

The research results indicate that as the state strives to develop the economy and society within the capitalist system, it is motivated to transfer ownership of resources to the private sector. This enables investment and transformation of resources into products, in order to support the country's economic development. The state utilizes the powers of legislation and policymaking to shape collective consciousness and establish hegemony along with the private sector that creates approval and consensus among people in the community by presenting the benefits that the community will receive from the mining project to empower villagers in the community to align their thinking with the goals of the government and private sector. At the same time, groups of villagers opposing the mining project have deprived the community of their rights to participate in the management and use of resources in the area. These groups have been informing the villagers about the impacts of pollution and health problems caused by mining projects. It's about shaping a mindset and another belief in the power struggle between the state and the private sector.