Mien Ethnic Group Government Through Consensus, Beliefs, Society, and Culture

Abstract

The ethnic group known as "Mien" or "Iu Mien" is known as "Yao," and they are one of the ethnic groups located in the highlands and dispersed throughout Northern Thailand. They can also be found near the borders of China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, with some having migrated to western countries following the Indochina War. The Mien people of Thailand first arrived in Lanna territory 200 years ago, settling dispersedly in Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Phayao, Lampang, Nan, Sukhothai, Tak, etc. They are well-known for their hill tribe traits, which include costumes, decorations, and different customs, including governance. The Mien strongly believes in the system of seniority, with men having a higher social position than women and being more powerful in every aspect. Mien people continue to keep their customs, culture, and traditional way of life, resulting in a harmonious development of their own identity in society. Both the language and the unique clothes are distinctive in embroidering, and both men and women are competent in unique embroidery. Furthermore, farming in the highlands is the Mien people's primary source of income. They are very devoted and believe in deities and sacred things, particularly the kinship system and ancestor spirits, hence the Mien people are governed by leaders such as elders, village leaders, and shamans. The Mien people's respect is founded on Taoism, which recognizes men as superior both in the household and community level. As a result, the Mien people's way of life in society is patriarchal. As a result, men have many advantages in society, and this is the Mien people's current system of government.