Center for Research on Plurality in the Mekong Region (CERP)

Introduction
Mekong Region encompasses six countries: Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand. This region has been recognized for its diverse cultural richness, yet at the same time is rapidly changing. Globalization and regionalization generate unprecedented flow of goods, investments, people, and images across national boundaries. Knowledge of the region’s social and cultural diversities under transformation will contribute to mutual understanding, cooperation, sustainable development and prosperity of the region.

Background
The Center for Research on Plurality in the Mekong Region (CERP) was established in 2003. At present (2009) the center is composed of 30 researchers affiliated with the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and also with the Faculty of Architecture, and Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts. Each year there are several Ph.D. and M.Sc. students conducting research under the supervision of the Center’s staff.

Vision
CERP will conduct research and generate new body of knowledge on the pluralistic societies and cultures in the Mekong Region, and will suggest development alternatives that are sustainable and respectful of cultural differences.

Mission

1. To conduct research on pluralistic societies in the Mekong Region in such areas as social and cultural pluralism, linguistic pluralism, ecological pluralism and resource management.
2. To integrate research into graduate-level education and build a body of knowledge based on Asian experiences.
3. To disseminate information for academic and development purposes.

Accomplishment
To date (May 2008), CERP has worked with 80 researchers from various disciplines and faculties in Khon Kaen University. A total of 27 research projects have been completed, and 36 are being implemented. CERP researchers have actively participated in Mekong academic communities, presenting and publishing up to 133 research papers in national and international conferences and journals.

In 2007 CERP has obtained 19 patents for innovative designs for silk textile, based on traditional heritage. The center has also organized several academic conferences, seminars, special lectures, trainings, and exhibition on social and cultural plurality of the Mekong Region. The center has since 2005 published an academic journal, Journal of Mekong Societies, which has gained a reward from the National Commission for Higher Education as a quality academic journal in social sciences, for four years consecutively. CERP also publishes about 15 books, and a quarterly newsletter. In 2010 CERP will host the Third International Conference on Lao Studies in Khon Kaen.

 

CERP Research Programs and Sub-Programs (2008-2012)