Journal of Politics and Governance

The Human Security Imperative in West Africa: An Analysis of ECOWAS' Response to Emerging Non-Military Security Threats

Abiodun Adiat — 2026-02-16

This study examines the challenges of non-military human security threats in West Africa and also appraises ECOWAS credibility as a security actor in addressing these threats. The study utilised both primary and secondary data. For the primary data, in-depth interviews were conducted with 22 respondents who are chosen purposively from the ECOWAS Commission, Selected Embassies in West Africa and Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nigeria. Secondary data were sourced from ECOWAS documents such as protocols establishing the various organs, institutions and modus operandi of the institution. The study revealed that ECOWAS mechanisms which include its various policies for addressing human security challenges in the sub-region are good, but they have not been effective due to some factors which include: lack of political will by member states to implement protocols, weak infrastructure within the member states and inadequate funding. Through the regional body, human security agenda has gained more importance in most of its member states. The study concluded that ECOWAS through its several policy frameworks has the capacity to address non military human security threats in the sub region. However, there is need for more synergy between the regional and national policy frameworks for effective response to these threats.

Development of a Model to Support Teaching and Learning Management in a Bilateral Participatory System for Workplace Trainers

Boonluea Thongkatkeaw — 2026-02-16

This research aimed to: 1) explore the future scenario of managing participatory dual vocational education and training (VET) for enterprise trainers; 2) develop and evaluate a management model; and 3) design and assess the effectiveness of a guidebook to support VET management in enterprises. The study followed a research and development methodology and was conducted in four phases. In Phase 1, the future scenario of VET management was explored. Phase 2, focused on developing and evaluating the management model. Phase 3 assessed the creation and effectiveness of the guidebook. Finally, Phase 4 involved monitoring the application of the guidebook. Data was analyzed using content analysis, including percentages and standard deviations. The findings emphasize the importance of strategic planning, clear management structures, operational systems, and support for the academic and professional development of trainers. The proposed model consisted of three key components: 1) a participatory management committee; 2) a participatory management process; and 3) trainer standards in enterprises. The model was rated as highly suitable in terms of both appropriateness (x̄ = 4.57, S.D. = 0.46) and accuracy (x̄ = 4.68, S.D. = 0.41). The guidebook was found to be both beneficial and feasible, achieving an effectiveness ratio of 87.31/81.82, which surpassed the 80/80 criteria. Follow-up evaluations showed high trainee satisfaction (x̄ = 4.49, S.D. = 0.44). Additionally, the trainees' ability to apply the guidebook's guidelines was rated very highly by the Deputy Director of Academic Affairs and the Head of the Industrial Technical Program (x̄ = 4.76, S.D. = 0.48).

Integrating Public Values into Organizational Resilience: A Case Study of the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA)

Kaniknan Sangmahachai — 2026-02-16

This research aims to explore how public values can be integrated into organizational practices to enhance resilience in public sector organizations, using the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) as a case study. This study employed Strauss and Corbin’s grounded theory methodology, using purposive and snowball sampling to conduct interviews and focus groups with 22 BMTA leaders and staff, complemented by documentary analysis. Data were analyzed through open, axial, and selective coding to develop a substantive theory on the process through which public values shape organizational resilience. Findings reveal that BMTA maintained legitimacy and ensured service continuity by taking a compassionate, reactive approach that was based on efficiency, accountability, and collaborative governance during the recognition and response to core vulnerabilities. In the subsequent stage of strategic adaptability, leadership that promotes employee participation, equity, innovation, adaptability, trustworthiness, employee well-being, and public service motivation facilitated organizational transformation and strengthened public trust. This study offers a substantive theory that connects public values to management strategies, showing that organizational resilience stems not only from structural and procedural capacities, but also from the beliefs, behaviors, and collective commitment of its members.

Environmental Politics in Thailand: An Analysis of the Policies of the Pheu Thai Party and the Move Forward Party in the 2023 Elections

Ladawan Khaikham — 2026-02-16

This study examines the role of political parties in shaping environmental policy in Thailand, focusing specifically on the Pheu Thai Party and the Move Forward Party during the 2023 general elections. The research analyzes how these parties integrate environmental concerns into their political agendas and how their policy approaches align with broader sustainable development goals. Using a qualitative research methodology, the study applies content and thematic analysis to data collected from campaign materials, official policy statements, and media coverage. The findings indicate that political parties play a crucial role in driving environmental policies, with the Pheu Thai Party primarily emphasizing economic development and rural welfare, while the Move Forward Party prioritizes comprehensive environmental reforms and grassroots activism. However, the study also identifies key challenges, including political instability, corruption, and conflicting interests, which hinder effective policy implementation. The findings highlight a need for clearer policy articulation, stronger democratic engagement, and stronger enforcement mechanisms to achieve meaningful environmental outcomes in Thailand's evolving political landscape. The 2023 elections represent a critical juncture for environmental policy development, providing an opportunity for political parties to present sustainable policy visions and promote community participation in environmental conservation.

Assessing the role of ethnic armed organizations in local governance of post-conflict Myanmar: A case study of New Mon State Party

Minn Myoh Minn Oo — 2026-02-16

Ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) in Myanmar have historically functioned as both military and governance roles, particularly in regions with minimal state control or its absence. In this study, the role of EAOs is analyzed in local governance, specifically in areas of service delivery and administration through a case study of New Mon State Party (NMSP). Using a qualitative case study approach, the study employed semi-structured interviews with local residents from three townships of Mon state which was further complemented by the analysis of secondary resources for data triangulation. Findings revealed that NMSP provides essential governance services in education, healthcare and local administration matters, reflecting some of decentralization principles. In addition, the study also highlights significant governance issues such as limitations in resources and formal legitimacy, taxation problems and corruption, and service inconsistencies. Through the lens of rebel governance and decentralization theories, the analysis informs that EAO-led governance presents an alternative governance framework in a contested manner in current federalization debates of Myanmar. Even though findings indicate that EAOs contributes significantly towards local governance, there remains complications in their legitimacy and sustainability, which raises critical questions about their integration into decentralized governance in post-conflict Myanmar.

Gender and Participation in Governance of Panchayat Raj Institutions in Karnataka

Narayana Billava — 2026-02-16

The inclusion of women in Panchayat Raj Institutions through constitutional enactments aimed to foster an environment of equality and social inclusion. As we approach 30 years since the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, which empowered women in Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs), it is essential to evaluate its impact. Karnataka pioneered this initiative by reserving 25% of Zilla Parishad and Mandal Panchayat seats for women in 1983, emphasizing gender-inclusive power distribution. This paper assesses whether this representation has led to effective and accountable participation across caste, religion, region, and class. Combining statistical data and qualitative insights, the study analyzes women’s participation in decentralized governance and planning, highlighting both positive and negative aspects. This paper explores the theoretical framework of decentralization, which argues that it enhances governance quality and service delivery through broad participation, aiming to empower marginalized classes, including women. However, patriarchal norms, gender-related violence, household duties, and male bias often restrict women’s public participation. Despite these challenges, elected women representatives (EWRs) have gained socio-economic and political empowerment, improved self-perception as leaders, and increased ambition. The study collected data from four Zilla Panchayats in Karnataka namely Kolar, Dakshina Kannada, Haveri, and Yadgir and covered 40 GPs selected based on Human Development Index (HDI) values. The analysis is structured around four key objectives: Elected Women Representatives’ access to decision-making, political and financial autonomy, accountability to pre-election promises, and effectiveness in sustained planning and development. Preliminary findings reflect on elected women representatives’ participation in grassroots political leadership, highlighting progress and ongoing challenges in achieving meaningful and impactful political empowerment for women in decentralized governance.

The Development of Curriculum on South Korean Foreign Policy Studies: Analysis of Outsiders and Insiders Perspectives on Korean Studies

Narut Charoensri — 2026-02-16

This article aims to assess the current status of South Korean foreign policy studies in undergraduate political science curricula, particularly in International Relations programs, and to analyze the perspectives of “insiders” (South Korean scholars) and “outsiders” (Thai or foreign scholars specializing in Korean Studies) regarding the key topics that should be incorporated into South Korea’s foreign policy courses. The objective is to contribute to the development of elective courses on South Korean foreign policy within the International Relations program under the Faculty of Political Science and Public Administration at Chiang Mai University. The central argument of this study posits that the development of knowledge on South Korea’s foreign policy should encompass three fundamental dimensions: (1) historical perspectives, (2) political institutions and interest groups, and (3) contemporary issues. These components are essential for understanding the internal transformations of South Korea, including its historical interactions with neighboring countries, relations with major powers, and shifts in the international system that influence South Korea’s strategic positioning within global political and economic structures. From a theoretical standpoint, the study of South Korean foreign policy should be approached through the lens of three major International Relations theories: structural realism, neoliberal institutionalism, and social constructivism. This theoretical framework enables a dual analysis of South Korea’s national interests—both from an empirical perspective, focusing on tangible geopolitical and economic factors, and from a constructivist perspective, emphasizing the role of evolving values, beliefs, and ideas shaped by South Korea’s unique sociopolitical context.

Policy Network Management and Community Enterprise Potential: The Mediating Role of Promoting Community Enterprise Management in Northeastern Thailand

Phanavich Nakhonsong — 2026-02-16

This study examines the complex relationships between policy network management, community enterprise management promotion, and community enterprise potential in Thailand's Northeastern region. Despite significant policy support for community enterprises, questions remain about how policy networks effectively enhance enterprise potential. Using a quantitative approach with data from 443 community enterprises, this research employs PLS-SEM to test a theoretical model linking these constructs. Findings reveal that promoting community enterprise management significantly mediates the relationship between policy network management and community enterprise potential. A well-coordinated policy network enhances enterprise potential primarily by strengthening management capabilities across multiple dimensions, including planning, knowledge management, and technology integration. This study contributes to policy network theory by demonstrating concrete implementation mechanisms and offers practical guidance for policymakers to design integrated support systems that recognize management capacity development as a critical pathway for community enterprise enhancement.

Arms Proliferation and Insecurity in Nigeria’s Niger Delta

Sunday Toyin Omojowo — 2026-02-16

Arms proliferation and insecurity is a global challenge. The situation in Nigeria is precarious as unrestricted and unchecked access to arms is one of the biggest monsters bedevilling Nigeria’s security. Hence, this study examined arms proliferation and insecurity in Nigeria, with a focus on the Niger Delta crisis. The study investigated the effect of arms proliferation on the escalation of insecurity and government responses in the Niger Delta. The study adopted a mixed method research design with a self-structured questionnaire and interview guide for data collection. 400 respondents were sampled from Bayelsa State, the study area, using stratified random sampling technique and ANOVA analysis was used to test the research hypotheses. The study revealed that arms proliferation contributed significantly to heightened insecurity in the Niger Delta region as it exacerbated the agitations for resource control and existing ethnic and communal conflict, violated human rights and increased militant attacks. It also revealed that government responses especially the Amnesty programme have helped to reduce illegal arms to the barest minimum though little tensions still brews in the region. It concluded that insecurity will continue unabated and arms will flow back into the region if the underlying causes of the agitations are not adequately addressed. The study therefore recommends that government should address the root causes of the crisis and put stringent measures like lengthy sentences for arms traffickers, in place to curb illegal arms to the barest minimum in the region.

A Study of The Participation Model of Partners in Driving the Calories Credit Challenge Under the New Economic Mode

Wanchalee Noriya — 2026-02-16

The goal of the study was to examine the guidelines for participation of network partners in the development and implementation of the Calories Credit Challenge: CCC platform under the new economic framework, the BCG Model, which refers to the Bio-Circular-Green Economy. This novel platform not only consolidates exercise and sports data from both government and commercial organizations to build comprehensive big data on Thai population fitness habits, but also strategically leverages this information to stimulate economic growth through environmentally conscious sports tourism initiatives. The study employed the mixed methods research approach to investigate the role and forms of network partners, participating in driving and factors for success. 400 partners were included in the quantitative phase. In addition, 10 key informants were included in focus group discussion to examine the functions of network partners. The findings indicate five guidelines for participation of network partners. The role of network partners indicate four agencies, including government, private sector, civil society, and mass media. This study provides significant insights on how to promote cooperation between the public and commercial sectors using CCC platform. Also, the study develops a structure for efficient communication, coordinated planning, and cooperative work execution, which can be broadly implemented.

Muslim Countries and the Supportive Roles for Peacebuilding in the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand

Yasmin Sattar — 2026-02-16

This study examines the roles of Muslim countries (Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Iran, Malaysia, and Indonesia) in Thailand's southern border conflict from 2004-2019, focusing on their motivations and impacts. Using qualitative methods including document analysis, interviews, and focus groups, the research explores these countries' involvement across multiple levels of engagement. The findings reveal diverse patterns of support, from Malaysia's role as an official facilitator to humanitarian and educational assistance from Gulf states. Identity politics and shared religious bonds emerge as key factors shaping engagement, while geopolitical interests and international image-building also play important roles. The study contributes to understanding how religious identity influences conflict resolution processes and provides recommendations for leveraging these relationships to support peacebuilding efforts.