The Wednesday SEA Mobilities series, jointly organized by SEA Junction, the IPSR In-House Seminar, and the Mahidol Migration Centre, hosted a presentation by Professor Paul Statham of the University of Sussex on the topic “Kathoey Using Tourist Scenes to Achieve Sustainable Lives and Recognition in Thailand.” Moderated by Pattraporn Chuenglertsiri of IPSR, the session explored how kathoey and gay men from poor Isan backgrounds navigate discrimination based on gender identity, class, and rural status, and how these constraints shape their life trajectories. 

Drawing on biographical interviews, Statham discussed how many participants grew up facing social pressure, family conflict, and stigmatization in their villages. Migration to urban areas—particularly tourist zones such as Pattaya—provided both escape and new challenges. While discrimination in mainstream workplaces often limited employment options, tourist zones offered alternative subcultural spaces where some kathoey could find income, community networks, and forms of gender recognition not accessible in their hometowns. 

Statham highlighted that these tourist environments, although shaped by commodification and often exploitative dynamics, could function as social opportunity structures. For some kathoey, relationships with foreign men became a pathway to financial stability and social mobility. Peer networks within these scenes offered emotional and practical support, forming the basis for what Statham terms “sustainable non-heteronormative lives,” combining economic survival with affirmation of gender identity. 

The discussion also examined how many participants later sought to “reach back home” by sending remittances, building houses, or contributing to community and temple activities—efforts aimed at regaining family acceptance and repairing earlier ruptures. Audience questions further explored issues such as discrimination across social classes, the impact of legal gender recognition, generational shifts in attitudes, and the effects of COVID-19 on livelihoods in tourist-dependent areas. 

More information from SEA Junction, click here. 

The full video of the event is embedded below for viewing, or click here to watch it on the SEA Junction YouTube channel.