Hill tribes are not indigenous to Thailand but rather ethnic groups that migrated from neighboring countries, primarily China, starting around 300 years ago. Today, there are six major hill tribes populating Thailand, with an estimated total population of 1.2 million. Each hill tribe with its own unique culture, language, and traditions that date back thousands of years.

Although many members of these hill tribes have been born in Thailand, most do not have Thai citizenship. Though national law allows for hill tribe members to attain citizenship, many are unable to do so due to complex regulations and lack of access to basic resources such as a birth certificate. Consider the impact of living without citizenship status; land ownership, voting rights, and state-funded health care are nearly impossible.

These tribes live a semi-nomadic lifestyle throughout the mountainous regions of northern Thailand where agriculture is the primary means of economic livelihood. However, some, living around major cities like Chiang Mai, are exposed to modern culture and are adapting, in part, despite their citizenship status.

One of these ethnic groups are the Hmong, originally from the mountainous regions of China Vietnam. During the 18th century, the Hmong were forced to make their way south into Thailand after political turmoil forced them off their land. Thousands of members of this tribe also made their way to America in the 1970s for the same reason. Today, there approximately 200,000 Hmong living in communities in California, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

To me, the most fascinating of these hill tribes are the Karen, who migrated from Burma. Today, they are the largest hill tribe living in northern Thailand with a population of nearly 280,000. Around the world, the Karen are probably best known as the ‘long neck’ tribe. In one particular tribal community, the women wear stacks of brass rings around their neck. Within the tribe, this custom is considered a representation of beauty, and this tradition has become rather iconic global image.

Enhance your knowledge: Learn about the Yao and the Akha.

Time travel: Visit the former Thai capital of Ayutthaya.

Blog by Tati Amare, Matt Boggie, Jenny M. Buccos, Gabrielle Pasternak & Rachel Rudwall.
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