Public Participation in the Provision of Public Services: A Case Study of Local Administrative Organizations in Ubon Ratchathani Province

Abstract

This research article aimed to: (1) study the problems and obstacles concerning public participation in the provision of public services by local government organizations in Ubon Ratchathani Province; and (2) propose guidelines for solving problems related to public participation in the provision of public services by local government organizations in Ubon Ratchathani Province. This study employed a qualitative research methodology through documentary research, including research studies, theses, books, textbooks, academic articles, laws, regulations, and other related documents. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals directly involved in public participation in the provision of public services by local government organizations in Ubon Ratchathani Province. The interviews combined predetermined questions with open-ended questions to allow respondents to express their opinions freely. The interview questions were divided into two sets. The first set was designed for administrators, financial officers, and planning officers of local government organizations, totaling 10 participants. The second set was intended for community representatives and members of the general public, totaling 15

The research findings revealed the following problems: 1) Local administrative organizations lack autonomy because they are required to operate in accordance with circular directives issued by the Department of Local Administration. 2) Problems concerning public participation in the provision of public services by local administrative organizations, beginning from the stage of public hearings through the formulation of local development plans and the enactment of annual budget ordinances or municipal budget regulations.

3) Certain public services are not implemented in accordance with local development plans and do not respond to the actual needs of the people. 4) People are unaware that they have the right to propose draft local ordinances or draft municipal regulations.5) Problems regarding the level of public participation in the provision of public services by local administrative organizations in Ubon Ratchathani Province.

RecommendationsTo address these issues, the study offers both policy and legal recommendations:

Policy Recommendations: 1) Central and regional administrative bodies should avoid issuing unnecessary official letters or circulars requesting cooperation from local administrative organizations in Ubon Ratchathani Province. 2) Local administrative organizations in Ubon Ratchathani Province must actively involve citizens in decision-making, monitoring, and evaluating every public service project or activity, rather than limiting public involvement merely to information acknowledgment and opinion sharing.Legal Recommendations: 1) Legal mechanisms should be enacted to halt any public service projects or activities if the budget allocation by local administrative organizations in Ubon Ratchathani Province deviates from the aforementioned local development plans. This restriction should also strictly apply to specific grant applications. 2) The five levels of public participation—Empowerment, Collaboration, Involvement, Consultation, and Information—should be formally codified into law. Enacting these levels into legally binding statutes will maximize public benefit and ensure comprehensive citizen engagement.