Journal of Politics and Governance

Migrants Versus Minorities: Sons of the Soil Conflicts in the Southern Philippines

2025-12-01T13:58:43+07:00

By the end of the Cold War, the study of international relations has experienced a reinvigoration of academic debate on intrastate conflicts as one of the greatest threats to international peace and security. A distinct form of these conflicts, also known as sons of the soil (SOS) conflicts, take place when migrants of a dominant ethnic group in a nation-state migrate to peripheral communities inhabited by indigenous minorities, triggering interethnic violence that eventually become highly intractable over time. Drawing census data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on ethnolinguistic groups in the Philippines, this paper attempts to build a historical account of conflicts in the southern Philippines as a compelling case of an SOS conflict. The paper concludes by generating explanations why Mindanao has continued to experience SOS conflicts despite the cessation of conflict activities in the past decades.

Challenges of Anti–Tax Avoidance Measures for Thailand in the Context of the Digital Economy

2025-08-26T14:38:11+07:00

The emergence of the digital economy—all the economic activities driven by digital technologies, including e-commerce, data, advertising, digital services, and the platform economy—has demonstrated that traditional measures to thwart tax avoidance under existing rules are inadequate to address complex, unpredictable types and methods of tax avoidance, thus increasing the risk that multinational enterprises will avoid tax. The growth of the digital economy has exacerbated the problem of tax avoidance, resulting in significant lost tax revenue for governments and impacting their ability to finance public services. This has led the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development to devise measures to prevent the erosion of the international tax base, specifically the Global Anti-Base Erosion Rules under Pillar II. Consequently, Thailand faces several significant challenges. The present study found that in the context of the digital economy, the country can appropriately pursue anti-avoidance measures by relying on its courts’ use and interpretation of various anti-avoidance doctrines, such as the principle of “abuse of law,” which represents a highly flexible general measure. As for specific measures, Thailand should accelerate the issuance of regulations to support and clarify the Royal Decree on Additional Taxes and either quickly enact specific legislation to collect direct tax on income from digital service provision or amend Section 76 bis or Section 70 of the Thai Revenue Code to collect income tax from multinational tech companies. The final step involves hastening the implementation of measures to ensure transparency and accountability in the domestic and international exchange of tax information by adopting blockchain technology.

Social Policy for Addressing Climate Change: A Multidimensional Perspective on Social Well-being and Impacting Service Industry

2025-04-21T15:59:11+07:00

In this study, the roles that social policy plays in the mitigation of the negative effects resulting from climate change on social well-being, with a specific focus on Thailand within a broader global context, were examined. Assessment of the ways that social policies can address climate-related damage, make communities stronger and more resilient, and increase the level of equity among affected populations is the primary aim. Employing a systematic literature review, this study synthesizes findings from both Thai and international case studies, with a particular focus on regions that have experienced significant climate-induced disasters. These cases reveal heightened social vulnerabilities—such as displacement, poverty, and diminished well-being—resulting from events such as floods, droughts, and storms. In consideration of these challenges, the implementation of social policies that are endorsed by national health assemblies, with an emphasis on both area-based and issue-based approaches to the improvement of social well-being, are examined. According to the findings, there is a critical need for adaptive policy frameworks that are grounded locally and equity-driven and combine disaster response, social protection programs, and long-term planning for resilience. Moreover, the findings of this study can provide beneficial insights into how effective such policies are in providing both immediate recovery and sustainable development within the context of climate change.

The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Mountain Regions of Eurasia: A Comparative Study of Russia and Thailand

2025-10-30T12:44:28+07:00

The article presents a comparative analysis of the involvement of non-governmental organizations in environmental protection in mountainous regions of Russia and Thailand. Its findings draw on public opinion surveys conducted in Russia, which are then compared with conclusions reached by Thai researchers studying similar issues in Northern Thailand. Despite apparent differences, both regions face remarkably similar environmental and social problems. There are, however, significant differences. Overall, in Russia, the performance of non-governmental (NGO) institutions in the mountainous regions is weaker than in Thailand. The reason for the difference is that Thai NGOs tend to be the expressions of the self-organization, particularly when they appear on the grassroot level to protect the interests of local communities. In Russia, NGOs tend to act in accordance with the governmental policies and in close interaction with the central government authorities. A stronger state leaves less room for the successful work of non-governmental organizations.

The Development of a Dual Vocational Education Training Model to Enhance Functional Competencies in the Workplace for Vocational Teachers under the Office of the Vocational Education Commission

2025-03-26T15:57:19+07:00

This research aimed to 1) investigate the problems and needs related to the dual system training model, 2) develop and evaluate the dual system training model, 3) trial the implementation of the model, and 4) monitor and evaluate the outcomes of the model. A research and development (R&D) methodology was employed, comprising four phases. In phase 1, the problems and needs associated with the dual system training model were studied. In phase 2, the dual system training model was developed and evaluated based on findings from phase 1. In phase 3, the developed model was trialed through implementation in a real-world context. In phase 4, the outcomes of the trial implementation were monitored and evaluated. Data were analyzed using content analysis, mean, percentage, and standard deviation. The research results found that the development of vocational teachers' workplace competencies achieved a high average score. The demand for a dual training system was also high among department heads, instructors, and administrators, all of whom emphasized the importance of hands-on training before, during, and after the training period. Notably, the highest emphasis was placed on experiential learning during and after training. The overall suitability of the proposed training model was rated at the highest level (x̄ = 4.66, S.D. = 0.47), and its overall accuracy was also at the highest level (x̄ = 4.57, S.D. = 0.49). The trial implementation and evaluation of the dual training system revealed that the overall usefulness of the model was rated as high (x̄ = 4.28, S.D. = 0.42), while its feasibility was rated at the highest level (x̄= 4.57, S.D. = 0.40). The efficiency of the model was recorded at 89.22/ 81.83, surpassing the predetermined criterion of 80/80. Overall, the trainees expressed a high level of satisfaction with the program (x̄ = 4.49, S.D. = 0.44). Additionally, the follow-up assessment by academic affairs deputy directors, industrial engineering department heads, and workplace training supervisors indicated that the trainees demonstrated the highest level of competency in practical applications (x̄ = 4.82, S.D. = 0.26). These findings underscore the quality and effectiveness of the well-designed and appropriately structured training program.

Soft Pull Vs Hard Landing: Comparing Japan and China’s Soft Power Strategies in The Philippines

2025-06-04T15:55:19+07:00

Turbulent geopolitical and geoeconomic times overshadow regional soft power dynamics of attraction. Yet China and Japan have been revamping their attempts to charm their southern neighbors to gain political and economic benefits across Southeast Asia. While soft power strategies are not always competitive, the actions of the two East Asian powers could be seen as efforts to outmatch each other within multiple dimensions, such as sociocultural appeal, economic investments and development assistance, and promotion of political values. Drawing upon the literature, semi-structured interviews (10) with regional experts, and a recurring survey (ISEAS State of Southeast Asia), this article investigates the multiple dimensions of soft power dynamics of attraction and influence involving these two main East Asian powers’ efforts in the Philippines, as a potential ‘swing state’ targeted by regional powers, until the immediate period after Marcos’ election in 2022. Combining primary and secondary data, this article embraces and supports mixed methods as a viable toolset when investigating complex soft power dynamics. In doing so, it highlights that – within the considered period – Japan seemed to be favoring a more cautious and targeted approach building on its positive reputation. China’s efforts appeared to be more ambitious, but they carried the risk of backlashing due to contradictions between its rhetoric and conduct, especially in the South China Sea. Overall, research investigating soft power dynamics should not be aimed at supplanting studies about harder strategic and economic considerations but complementing them to provide a fuller picture of regional interactions and beyond.

Karimun District Environmental Issues: Challenge or Opportunity?

2025-05-01T15:19:57+07:00

This article discusses the implementation of waste management policies in Karimun Regency by referring to Regional Regulation Number 7 of 2013 and the theory of policy implementation from Indira and Wahab. This research uses a qualitative descriptive method to analyze the obstacles and challenges faced by the local government in implementing the policy. The results show that although the policy objectives have been well formulated, such as creating a clean environment, increasing community participation, utilizing waste as a resource, and improving cleaning services, the implementation still encounters various obstacles. The main obstacles include low public awareness, limited human resources and infrastructure, and lack of synergy between implementing agencies. The mismatch between the formulated policies and their implementation is also a challenge, especially in terms of the accuracy of the implementers and the achievement of targets. Low community participation in the policy formulation process also weakens the effectiveness of implementation. Therefore, strategies to improve collaboration, implementation efficiency, and community support are needed to strengthen the implementation of waste management policies in Karimun Regency.

Human Rights Protection for Indonesian Migrant Workers: A Policy Implementation Study in The Border Region of Riau Islands Province

2025-07-22T10:52:41+07:00

This study examines the implementation of human rights protection policies for Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI) in the border region of Riau Islands Province. The research aims to analyze how PMI human rights protection policies are implemented in border areas with unique characteristics and identify factors influencing policy implementation effectiveness. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, data was collected through in-depth interviews with key informants from BP3MI Riau Islands Province, literature review, and documentation. The analysis employed Miles and Huberman's interactive model, including data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that policy implementation in the Riau Islands faces significant challenges across four key factors: communication, resources, disposition, and bureaucratic structure. Major obstacles include severe human resource constraints with only 28 employees handling complex PMI issues, geographical challenges due to numerous islands and unofficial ports facilitating illegal departures, inter-agency coordination problems caused by sectoral ego, and the complexity of border area problems involving both legal and illegal PMI cases. Despite these challenges, BP3MI Riau Islands has developed adaptive strategies including integrated teams at embarkation points, post-PMI empowerment programs, and strengthened prevention efforts through education and socialization. The study concludes that effective PMI human rights protection in border areas requires comprehensive approaches addressing resource limitations, improving inter-agency coordination, and implementing preventive strategies to reduce human rights violations.

Knowledge Integration and Spatial Context: A Pathway to an Education and Innovation Hub for Betong as a Model City of Sustainable Self-Reliance

2026-02-19T09:34:26+07:00

This research article aims to present a synthesis and analysis of the knowledge landscape concerning the development of Betong District, Yala Province, as a model city. The study seeks to support the initiative to establish an Education, Research, and Service Innovation Center for the security, prosperity, and sustainability of a model city within the southern border economic triangle. This research employs a descriptive analytical methodology through the synthesis of research and project implementation outcomes in Betong District over a five-year period (2016–2020). The findings reveal that the knowledge landscape is categorized into five main areas: (1) tourism, (2) product development, (3) commerce and business, (4) drug-related problems, and (5) environmental management. These bodies of knowledge are interconnected with the core conceptual frameworks for model city development, namely the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, the principle of participation, and the principle of community development for sustainable self-reliance. The study also identifies knowledge gaps that require further exploration across multiple dimensions to ensure comprehensive and tangible development. Consequently, this article proposes the establishment of an integrated Education, Research, and Service Innovation Center. This center should function as a knowledge hub, a repository for the historical background of the Malay Peninsula border region, and a comprehensive community management center to drive Betong District toward becoming a sustainably self-reliant model city.

Integrated Framework for Digital-Era Public Administration Curricula: Insights from Thai and International Universities

2025-11-11T09:37:01+07:00

This paper examines the policy directions in relation to developing digital personnel, generalizes the aspects of incorporating digital subjects in the curriculum of public administration, and recommends a conceptual framework for designing a curriculum in public administration in the digital era. The documentary analysis of international and national policy papers, six public administration curricula, and academic literature was conducted through the use of qualitative research. These findings suggest that the national and international policy of developing personnel focuses on artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, digital citizenship, lifelong learning, and university-government collaboration to support the development of digital competency. There are five dimensions under which the curriculums were explored: digital foundational competencies; digital technology and public management; data use and policy analysis; legal, ethical, and digital citizenship; and integrating innovation, technology, and public development. The study also recommends an integrated conceptual framework of digital public administration curricula, which encompasses policy inputs, curriculum design processes, and learning outcomes. This work contributes to the further empowerment of digital education within the field of public administration by providing a model of policy-to-curriculum integration that would help universities and policymakers to synchronize the policy intent and the curriculum in practice.

Proactive Management: Strategic Frameworks for Success and Sustainability in an Era of Change

2025-07-25T16:29:23+07:00

Proactive management has gained increasing attention in both academic and organizational contexts due to its strategic role in enhancing adaptability and competitiveness in volatile and uncertain environments. This study aims to synthesize a conceptual framework of proactive management through documentary analysis guided by Snyder’s (2019) model. A total of 134 scholarly articles published between 2020 and 2025, inclusive, were initially identified from reputable academic databases, including Scopus, ScienceDirect, SCImago Journal Rank (SJR), and Google Scholar. Following systematic selection criteria, 41 articles were selected for in-depth synthesis. The analysis focused on five key dimensions: core concepts, foundational elements, strategic outcomes, the role of proactive leadership, and practical applications. The findings reveal that proactive management comprises five interconnected components: anticipation, strategic planning, proactive problem-solving, team development, and data-driven decision-making. Collectively, these elements contribute to improved risk mitigation, enhanced organizational efficiency, increased team confidence, greater resilience, and sustained competitiveness. The resulting integrated framework offers both theoretical insights and practical implications, serving as a foundation for strategic design, leadership development, and policy formulation in rapidly evolving environments.

Needs and Development Guidelines for Social Welfare of the Elderly: A Case Study of Ban Thin Subdistrict, Non Sang District, Nong Bua Lamphu Province

2025-09-23T08:54:55+07:00

This study examined the needs and development guidelines for social welfare of the elderly in Ban Thin Subdistrict, Non Sang District, Nong Bua Lamphu Province. The research had four objectives: 1) to investigate the basic problems and needs of the elderly regarding social welfare, 2) to compare welfare needs among elderly with different personal factors, 3) to analyze the relationship between basic problems and welfare needs, and 4) to propose development guidelines for elderly social welfare. The study employed a mixed methodology. Quantitative data collection utilized questionnaires with 310 respondents selected through convenience sampling, while qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews using structured interview guides with 12 participants chosen by purposive sampling. Results revealed that elderly individuals experienced severe basic problems, particularly in economic aspects (Mean = 4.44), followed by social issues and physical/mental health concerns. Elderly needs were also at high to highest levels, with income needs ranking highest (Mean = 4.55), followed by recreational, housing, environmental, health, social, and economic needs. Comparative analysis indicated that welfare needs differed significantly across certain personal factors - gender differences appeared in environmental aspects, age differences in housing needs, and income and family member differences in social and health domains. Additionally, economic problems showed a significant positive correlation with welfare needs (p < 0.05), explaining 32.1% of the variance. The development guidelines identified by the elderly included increasing living allowances, promoting occupational training, establishing health home-visit teams, creating community gathering spaces, enhancing age-friendly environments, and establishing emergency shelters or nursing homes for elderly people in difficult circumstances. The research findings highlight that elderly welfare needs are diverse and linked to daily basic problems. Thus, welfare services should be developed within community contexts with elderly-centered approaches to enhance quality of life and long-term security, while improving social welfare arrangements appropriate to community contexts.