Christian Values and Beliefs in Development Practice: A Case Study of Faith-Based Development in Karen Hilltribe Communities, Mae Sariang, Thailand

Abstract

This thesis contends that faith-based development organisations are not well-studied; it examines the faith-based aspects of World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) and its work in Mae Sariang as a case study. This thesis first analyses how Christian values, beliefs and identity of World Vision International shape WVFT’s understanding of its mission and development programmes. Second, it examines the extent to which the interaction of Christian values, beliefs and ethics of WVFT with that of religions of Karen hilltribe communities enhances or impedes development projects in the areas of participation and sustainability. This study reveals that Christian identity, values and beliefs through ‘Transformational Development’, ‘Christian Witness’ and organisational culture are demonstrated in development practice WVFT, but to a limited extent due to reasons of sensitivity in the Thai context; and adaptations and interpretations of development by field workers. Partnerships with faith-based groups, which can bring about development beyond material well-being, are also minimal. It is also found in this research that the different religious groups of the Karen hilltribe communities under study have close interactions due to their shared cultural identity and history. In addition, the villagers have their existing survival strategy by relying on the spiritual belief and practices through which community participation can occur. Thus far, the interaction of WVFT’s Christian values and beliefs with Karen hilltribe communities has been minimal, and has little contribution to community participation and sustainability. However, as the Mae Sariang Area Development Programme undergoes redesigning to increase the capacity of field staff to work with faith-based groups, the interaction of both Christian and local religious values and beliefs may increase to bring about community participation and sustainability for the fulfilment of development goals.