Getting in the Driver's Seat Creating Sustainable Development for Indigenous (and all) People
Abstract
This paper looks at the various definitions of development and their implications
through exploring the 'culture ofdevelopment' that exists in large international aid and
nongovernmental organizations. An example of the contrasts in these cultures can be seen in the
work ofa local NGO, the New Life Center with the development policies ofthe Thai
government involving assimilation into Thai society. The issue of prostitution is explored in
regards to how it is related to hill tribe people. Finally, this paper addresses the concern of both
a theoretical and practical definition of sustainable development involving empowerment,
participation and accountability. The New Life Center again provides an example of how these
concepts can be put into action.