An Examination of Vulnerable Populations in Thailand’s Southern Border Provinces Through the Framework of an Inclusive City That Leaves No One Behind

Abstract

This article presents the author’s perspective on vulnerable populations residing in the three southern border provinces of Thailand, through the concept of an inclusive city—a city that leaves no one behind. The discussion is based on the author’s role as a lecturer of the course 427-412 Sociology of Vulnerable Groups, an elective in the Sociology and Anthropology program at Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus. It also draws upon student projects completed in this course during two academic terms: Semester 2/2023 and Semester 2/2024. The author’s understanding of the inclusive city has further been developed through participation in activities with the Media Center for Children and Youth (MCCY) over the past six years, which provided a solid grasp of the framework’s principles and ideas. This concept has been applied in teaching practices, particularly through “city walk” activities that allow students to learn from direct experiences. By observing and conversing with different social groups sharing the same spaces, students are encouraged to recognize and reflect on which groups may risk being overlooked or excluded from society.