Environmentalists argue the junta’s forest reclamation policy is prolonging conflict over Thailand’s environment, by failing to balance the protection of Thailand’s forests with the community rights of local dwellers. Lertsak Khamkongsak, the coordinator of the Eco-Culture Study Group, said tension between forestry officials and local residents will only grow stronger if the government continues to abuse its special powers. The current land law, enacted since 1953, does not promote the rights of local people to protect their community and home forests.