Communication for the Reconciliation Building with the Nine Principles in Buriram Peace Community Project

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to study 1) the context of communication for reconciliation building in the Buriram Nine Principles of Peace Community Project; 2) the process of communication for reconciliation building; 3) the patterns of communication for reconciliation building; and 4) approaches for developing better communication for reconciliation building. This was a qualitative research. The study area was Charoen Suk Village, Moo 12, Buriram Province. In-depth interviews were held with 22 key informants and additional data were obtained through non participatory observation. Data were analyzed through conclusion forming and reported descriptively. The results showed that 1) the context that involved communication was the local identity expressed in traditions that cement familial relationships and thus promote peaceful co-existence and happiness. 2) In the communication process, the message sender was credible and knowledgeable about reconciliation. The messages communicated were about the Nine Principles of Peace agreement, life guidance, and the well being of the community. The media used were primarily personal media and the public address system. The message receivers had good attitudes toward the message sender and the messages. 3) The patterns of communication were dialogue, Buddhist approaches and community culture and traditions. 4) Approaches for improvement are to accept the equality of message senders and message receivers, and to select messages that comply with reality, that are beneficial to the stakeholders and that fit in with the community mores. The patterns of dialogue, Buddhist approaches and communication through community culture and traditions are appropriate for building reconciliation.