Authors : Rukchanok Chumnanmak, Yaowalak Apichatvullop and Patcharin Laphanan
Abstract: This study focuses on the concepts and definitions related to social networks and power relations around the Thai-Laos Border, focusing on the border traders who work there using qualitative research methodologies. The study will explain the characteristics of the social networks used by the border traders and their border trade system to analyze the relationships that exist among these networks and their power in relation to the border trade economic system. Researcher proves that social networks still have an influence on the interactions that take place between individual border traders, those who are both majors and retails traders of the Thai-Laos border trade system. This phenomena shows that globalization has caused modification to economic and social relations and has affected power relations between the border traders.
Rukchanok Chumnanmak, Yaowalak Apichatvullop and Patcharin Laphanan, 2016. Border Trade Area: Social Networks and Power Relations of the Thai-Lao PDR Border Trade System. The Social Sciences, 11: 317-323.