News Agenda and Content Direction of Populist Policy as Presented in Newspaper During and Post Thaksin Shinawatra

Abstract

 This study aims at studying content about populist policies implemented during the Thaksin Shinawatra administration and the interim administration under Gen Surayud Chullanont in three selected newspapers- Matichon, Thai Rath and Krungthep Thurakit. Content analysis of news and editorials about major populist policies namely-universal healthcare, affordable housing program and legalized lottery policy-was conducted between 9 February 2001 and 20 September 2007, alongside in-depth interviews with editors and news chiefs at the respective newspapers. The research has these findings. The studied newspapers presented different news agenda and content direction during the Thaksin administration from the Surayud administration. During Thaksin administration, the newspapers put emphasis on policy and progress in policy implementation. Most of the news sources found are from government sector. During the Surayud administration, the newspapers put more emphasis on the policy change and adjustment, as well as anti-corruption policy. Most of the news sources are independent committees.