FACTORS AND A CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT MODEL FOR PUBLIC SECTOR PERSONNEL IN MIGRANT LABOR MANAGEMENT IN THE TAK SPECIAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ZONE, THAILAND

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1) Examine strategies and approaches for developing the capacity of public sector personnel in migrant labor management; 2) Analyze the factors affecting the efficiency of migrant labor management among public sector personnel; and 3) Develop a capacity development model for public sector personnel in the Tak Special Economic Development Zone, Thailand. This study employed a qualitative research design. Fifteen key informants, including government executives, operational officers, academics, and relevant stakeholders, were purposively selected. Data were collected through document analysis and in-depth interviews and analyzed using content analysis and qualitative synthesis. The findings revealed that 1) The most influential factor affecting the efficiency of migrant labor management was the lack of integrated information systems and digital technology among government agencies, resulting in operational delays and duplication. Public sector personnel also required competencies in migrant labor laws, cross-cultural communication, and inter-agency collaboration. 2) Capacity development should emphasize experiential learning, cross-cultural competencies, digital technology utilization, and systematic inter-agency cooperation. and 3) The findings led to the development of the TACAK Model, an integrated capacity development model comprising five components: Training and Legal Knowledge, Administrative Skill, Coordination Network, Attitude and Service Mind, and Knowledge Management and Digital System. The study contributes new knowledge by proposing the TACAK Model as a framework for developing the capacity of public sector personnel in border areas.