Swidden Transformations and Rural Livelihoods in Southeast Asia |
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Authors: | R A Cramb Carol J Pierce Colfer Wolfram Dressler Pinkaew Laungaramsri Quang Trang Le Elok Mulyoutami Nancy L Peluso Reed L Wadley |
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Institution: | (1) The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia;(2) Centre for International Forestry Research, Bogor, Indonesia;(3) Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand;(4) Center for Environment and Community Development, Hanoi, Vietnam;(5) World Agroforestry Centre, Bogor, Indonesia;(6) University of California, Berkeley, USA;(7) University of Missouri, Columbia, USA |
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Abstract: | This paper explores the major interactions between the transformation of swidden farming and the pursuit of rural livelihoods
in the uplands of Southeast Asia. The paper draws on selected literature, workshop reflections, and six case studies to describe
the causal processes and livelihood consequences of swidden change. Household-level livelihood responses have included both
the intensification and ‘dis-intensification’ of swidden land-use, the insertion of cash crops, the redeployment of household
labour, and the taking on of broader (often non-rural) livelihood aspirations and strategies. At the community level there
have been emerging institutional arrangements for management of land and forests, and varying degrees of participation in
or resistance to government schemes and programs. Swidden change has led to the loss and also the reassertion, realignment,
and redefinition of cultures and identities, with important implications for access to resources. The impacts of these changes
have been varied. Cash crops have often improved livelihoods but complete specialisation for the market increases vulnerability.
Thus swidden can still provide an important safety net in the face of market fluctuations. Improved access to markets and
social provision of education and health care have mostly improved the welfare of previously isolated groups. However, growing
differences within and between communities in the course of swidden transformations can leave some groups marginalized and
worse off. These processes of differentiation can be accentuated by heavy-handed state interventions based on swidden stereotypes.
Nevertheless, communities have not passively accepted these pressures and have mobilized to protect their livelihood assets
and strategies. Thus swidden farmers are not resisting appropriate and supportive forms of development. They are adopting
new practices and engaging with markets, but in many situations swidden is still important to their livelihood strategies,
providing resilience in the face of turbulent change. Active involvement of local people is essential in planning, implementing,
monitoring and evaluating development and conservation programs in swidden lands. Positive market incentives and supportive
government policies are better than standardised, top-down directives.
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Keywords: | Agrarian change Uplands Livelihood strategies Resource tenure Food security Agency |
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