EMPOWERING LOCAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH COMMUNITY DEMOCRACY: NONG SARAI CASE STUDY

Jatupon DONGJIT; Saichol  PANYACHIT; Cholvit JEARAJIT

doi:10.14456/tisr.2026.21

Authors

Jatupon DONGJIT Faculty of Social Sciences, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
Saichol PANYACHIT Faculty of Social Sciences, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
Cholvit JEARAJIT Faculty of Social Sciences, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14456/tisr.2026.21

Keywords:

Community Democracy, Local Development, Community Empowerment, Participatory Governance, Civic Engagement

Abstract

This qualitative study investigates the application of community democracy processes for local development within Nong Sarai Subdistrict, Kanchanaburi Province. Grounded in Max Weber’s interpretive sociology, the research rigorously analyzed data from 12 key informants via in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. Findings demonstrate that community democracy transcends abstract theory, operating as a "living democracy" deeply embedded in daily practices—such as public forums, occupational groups, and civic assemblies. This grassroots engagement significantly elevates citizens from passive recipients to proactive co-creators of development, operating at the highest levels of participatory partnership. The study synthesizes these mechanisms into the "Community Empowerment Democracy Model (CEDM)". This five-pillar model emphasizes grassroots human development, multi-group participatory structures, a consensus-based consultative culture, shared civic accountability, and strategic alignment with state policies. Ultimately, the research confirms that authentic local development requires the state to transition from a controlling authority to an active enabler of bottom-up democratic practices.

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