Financial efficiency or relational harmony? Microfinance through community groups in Northeast Thailand

Schaaf, R (2010) 'Financial efficiency or relational harmony? Microfinance through community groups in Northeast Thailand.' Progress in Development Studies, 10 (2). pp. 115-129. ISSN 1464-9934

Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/146499340901000202

Abstract

Groups and microfinance facilities are intended to produce a variety of economic, social and political outcomes. However, the debate in the development literature about their effectiveness heightens the importance of exploring whether multidimensional outcomes are actually achieved. Drawing on findings from empirical research in Northeast Thailand, where promotion of groups and microfinance schemes is strong, this article highlights the need to understand the context and existing relationships within which community groups and microfinance services are situated, in order to identify important characteristics and processes that limit the outcomes of the groups. In particular, the research illustrates how the groups’ operation has resulted in a trade-off in material and relational wellbeing outcomes, as financial efficiency is valued only to the extent that relational harmony can be assured.

Item Type: Article
Keywords: Microfinance, community groups, Thailand, wellbeing, collective action
Divisions: Chancelry and Research Management
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1177/146499340901000202
Date Deposited: 01 Feb 2013 11:15
Last Modified: 15 Aug 2021 09:33
URI / Page ID: https://researchspace.bathspa.ac.uk/id/eprint/1013
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