Exploring the role of Buddhist monks’ and nuns’ engagement in community development as catalysts for social change and sustainable development in Lao People’s Democratic Republic : a case study of the Buddhism for Development Project at Ban Bungsanthueng, Nongbok District, Khammouane Province, by Toung Eh Synuanchanh

Abstract

The topic of this research report is an important one in the context of Asia’s rapid economic development in recent years, and the need to rethink development policy and especially methodologies of development communications, so the mistakes of the past will not be replicated. Thus, the study is an important initiative at this period of time. The research takes as a case study the Buddhism for Development Project (BDP) implemented at Ban Bungsanthueng village in the Khammouane Province by its Buddhist Volunteer Spirit for Community network (BVSC network). The fieldwork took place at the BDP’s training centre in Vientiane and the Buddhist initiatives at Ban Bungsanthueng. The research demonstrates how the BDP and its network apply participatory approaches through interpersonal communication, such as sermon delivery, Dhamma (Buddhist teachings) talk, and daily interaction with villagers and project members.