Whereas Thailand has experienced fast economic growth in the recent past, it has not been spared
from some specific growth pains. Growth has been excessively concentrated, especially in Bangkok,
resulting in population and in-migration pressures, socio-cultural problems, pollution, etc.. Because of
this concentration, other regions in the country have not equally shared in the benefits of growth. Many
rural areas continued to be plagued by poverty, out-migration, etc.

The Northeastern region is the most striking example of these peripheral regions. It covers the
following provinces: Nakhon Phanom, Sakon Nakhon, Nong Khai, Udon Thani, Loei, Mukhadan,
Yasothon, Ubon Ratchathani, Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Buri Ram, Si Sa Ket,
Surin, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima. The region covers about 105.5 mio rais1 and has a
population of about 20 mio people.