The Management of Outstanding Debt of the Women Empowerment Fund in Mae La Noi District, Mae Hong Son Province

Abstract

          This research aimed to examine the characteristics and trends of outstanding debt in the Women Empowerment Fund in Mae La Noi District, Mae Hong Son Province; to analyze borrowers’ attitudes, understanding, and repayment behaviors; to investigate the fund management system; and to propose debt monitoring guidelines suitable for the local context. A qualitative case study approach was employed. Data were collected through documentary research, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with 55 key informants, including community development officers, subdistrict women committee members, community leaders, and women borrowers. The data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that outstanding debt resulted from multiple factors, including group-based borrowing and joint guarantees, misuse of loans, lack of financial discipline, inappropriate debt prioritization, fluctuating agricultural income, and misunderstanding of the fund as government assistance rather than a revolving loan. Social capital, kinship networks, and community leaders also played an important role in strengthening repayment discipline in some communities, particularly those emphasizing trust, promises, and village reputation. The study suggests that debt management policy should focus on proactive monitoring, real-time debt databases, positive incentives for disciplined borrowers, and the integration of credit provision with occupation and income development. These measures would help promote fair, context-sensitive, and sustainable debt management.