Journal of politics, administration and law

Thailand Provincial Administration: Origins, Transitions and Prospects

Pusit Jamsri — 2026-03-27

Thailand's provincial administration has long served as a critical mechanism for extending central government authority to the local level. Originating from administrative reforms during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), the national administrative structure was organized into three tiers: central, provincial (regional), and local administration. Initially, provincial administration played a vital role in disseminating policies, budgets, and development projects to rural areas, largely through provincial governors and district chiefs. However, in recent decades, this role has come under scrutiny amid ongoing bureaucratic reforms and decentralization efforts. Challenges include functional overlaps with local government organizations and structural fragmentation arising from central ministries operating local offices independently. This article traces the historical evolution of Thailand's provincial administration, analyzes institutional problems that have emerged due to reforms, and proposes strategic recommendations to redefine the role, authority, and institutional relevance of provincial administration within a modern governance framework responsive to future development needs.

Land and Building Tax: A Mechanism for Promoting Equity and Reducing Inequality in Thai Society

Khwanta Benchakhan — 2026-03-27

This article examines the Land and Building Tax as a policy instrument for promoting economic equity and reducing asset ownership inequality in Thai society. It analyzes the Land and Building Tax Act B.E. 2562 (2019), which represents a pivotal shift in Thailand’s property tax regime from an outdated and opaque system to a more progressive and purpose-driven framework. The new law introduces differentiated tax rates based on land use and adopts a progressive tax structure aimed at promoting fairness. Despite these intentions, several challenges persist in practice, including incomplete property databases, undervaluation of land for taxation purposes, excessive exemptions, and limited capacity of local authorities in tax administration. The article also draws comparisons with East Asian countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, where effective property taxation is underpinned by accurate valuation systems, digital technology integration, and decentralized tax administration. Based on this comparative analysis, the article proposes policy reforms to enhance the effectiveness of Thailand’s land taxation, focusing on structural improvement, regulatory enforcement, and integration with broader public policy goals. Ultimately, the study argues that a well-designed land tax system can serve as a sustainable mechanism for narrowing inequality and strengthening fiscal justice.

Thailand’s Household Debt and the Financial Literacy Trap: A Public Policy Analysis for Economic Sustainability

Sujittra Panpum — 2026-06-30

This article aims to analyze Thailand’s household debt crisis within a public policy framework, with a particular focus on the role of the “financial literacy trap” as a structural mechanism linking household financial behavior to macroeconomic stability. The study employs a systematic literature synthesis based on the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, with quality appraisal conducted using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). The analysis draws upon empirical studies, international policy reports, and institutional publications over the past decade.

The findings indicate that Thailand’s household debt crisis is not solely driven by economic factors but is the result of systemic interactions among (1) present-biased financial behavior, (2) financial knowledge deficits, and (3) a predominantly reactive policy structure that emphasizes short-term debt relief rather than long-term prevention. This issue is further intensified by the rapid expansion of digital lending and financial technologies (FinTech), which increase access to credit without a corresponding improvement in financial management capacity.

The key contribution of this study is the development of the “Financial Immunity Policy Framework,” which integrates financial knowledge capital with policy capital within a financial learning ecosystem. The framework is driven by three core mechanisms: lifelong financial learning, behavioral policy design, and policy learning mechanisms. This integrated approach has the potential to reduce new debt incidence and disrupt persistent debt cycles by reshaping financial behavior and systemic incentives.

Policy recommendations emphasize a paradigm shift from reactive to preventive policy, including the development of a national financial literacy strategy, the establishment of community-based financial learning centers, and the application of behavioral tools in credit regulation. While this study does not claim direct empirical validation, it proposes a policy framework that can be further simulated and tested in future research to enhance the long-term financial stability of Thai households.

How to Vote Without Harming Society: Proposals for a Sustainable and Substantive Democracy

Pokin Kwaounla — 2026-06-30

In a democratic system, elections are a crucial mechanism for transferring power from the people to trusted representatives. However, in many societies—particularly those with fragile political structures or a lack of strong democratic culture—elections have become a source of severe social disruption. These include political polarization, hate speech, the spread of fake news, and disinformation, all of which undermine mutual trust and the nation's social capital. This article analyzes these issues through the frameworks of substantive democracy, social capital, and political communication in the digital era. This study aims to examine the political leadership of politicians in Bangkok, investigate the factors influencing such leadership, and propose guidelines for developing political leadership based on Buddhist principles. The findings indicate that 1) Political leadership should develop four key skills: exercising moral influence instead of relying on positional power, delegating tasks appropriately according to individual capabilities, managing with flexibility in response to changing situations, and fostering positive motivation. 2) Factors influencing the development of political leadership among Bangkok politicians through political socialization include family, education, mass media, and culture. Overall, these factors have a moderate positive influence and significantly contribute to explaining leadership development, with culture and family being the most influential. And 3) The development of political leadership among Bangkok politicians emphasizes the integration of Buddhist principles with four leadership skills—moral influence, appropriate delegation, flexibility in management, and positive motivation—along with the application of Pāpaṇika Dhamma and political socialization through family, education, media, and culture, in order to enhance morality, transparency, and the pursuit of the common good in a sustainable manner

Legal Problems in the Application of Anti-Money Laundering Measures: A Case Study of Match-Fixing Offences

TANAKORN TEERAPAPHARAK — 2026-06-30

The exchange of benefits for the purpose of fixing the results of professional sports competitions was enacted as a specific criminal offense with corresponding penalties under the Professional Sports Promotion Act, B.E. 2556 (2013). This delegated authority to the state to prosecute and enforce legal sanctions against those involved in corruption within the sports industry.

However, the study found legal limitations. Following the successful completion of a match-fixing act, the management of assets or benefits derived from the commission of the offense was often followed by processes of displacement, transfer, or conversion of assets with the intent to conceal the source or illicit acquisition of unlawful benefits. Nevertheless, the laws of the Kingdom of Thailand provided for the control of offenders' behavior, as appeared in the Anti-Money Laundering Act, B.E. 2542 (1999). Yet, this Act did not possess comprehensive measures for controlling illicit assets or benefits because the offense of match-fixing, under the Professional Sports Promotion Act, B.E. 2556 (2013), was not designated as a "Predicate Offense." A predicate offense is a criminal offense that serves as the basis for the acquisition of assets or benefits from criminal acts. Consequently, the measures under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, B.E. 2542 (1999), could not be applied to the unlawfully acquired assets or benefits.

Therefore, the fact that the offense of match-fixing was not designated as a "Predicate Offense" under the list of predicate offenses stipulated in the Anti-Money Laundering Act, B.E. 2542 (1999), created a legal gap. This gap significantly hindered the government from using effective legal mechanisms to track, examine, seize, or freeze assets that were displaced, transferred, or converted to conceal their source directly.

A Guideline for Qualitative Data Synthesis for Accounting Records in Financial Statement Preparation for Investment Project Feasibility Analysis in Intellectual Property and Investment Consulting Business

Pornthip Jatupornmongkolchai — 2026-03-27

This study aims (1) to develop guidelines for synthesizing qualitative data for accounting recognition in the preparation of financial statements for project feasibility analysis, (2) to apply the developed guidelines in preparing projected financial statements, and (3) to evaluate the investment feasibility of the project based on the resulting financial reports using key financial indicators, namely Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and Payback Period (PBP). The research employed a qualitative research methodology. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 experts, a comprehensive review of relevant literature, and triangulation to ensure data validity and reliability. The collected data were analyzed using content analysis to synthesize and develop accounting guidelines suitable for businesses characterized by intangible assets and limited quantitative data.

The findings indicate that five key accounting guidelines were developed: (1) a framework for synthesizing qualitative data into accounting practices, (2) revenue recognition guidelines, (3) personnel cost management guidelines, (4) pre-operating expense recognition guidelines, and (5) guidelines for the recognition and consideration of intangible assets. These guidelines were subsequently applied to formulate financial assumptions and prepare 20-year projected financial statements, systematically reflecting the project’s revenue structure, cost structure, and financial position in accordance with financial reporting standards.

The financial feasibility analysis demonstrates that the project yields a Net Present Value (NPV) of 15.74 million baht, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 88.20%, and a Payback Period (PBP) of 1 year and 3 months. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis confirms the project’s robustness under variations in key assumptions. The results suggest that the developed guidelines serve as an effective tool for preparing financial statements and supporting investment decision-making in emerging businesses characterized by intellectual property–driven models and limited historical financial data.

Legal Issues Related to The Control of The Number and Use of Firearms in Thailand

JIDAPA PORNYING — 2026-05-07

The problem of firearm possession and the use of firearms in serious crimes has long been a problem in Thailand, and the number of firearm-related crimes has increased significantly. Although Thailand has a firearms, ammunition, and explosives act. The Crime Prevention Act, B.E. 2490 (1947), which stipulates offences arising from making, purchasing, possessing, ordering or importing firearms, including carrying firearms in the city. However, because the law does not stipulate the number of firearms that people can purchase and possess. Therefore, there are a lot of firearms in the possession of the public legally and may be easily used to commit crimes.

The results of the research showed that the Firearms, Ammunition, and Explosives Act. Section 9 only requires that a person who wishes to buy or possess a firearm must apply for a license to possess and use a firearm for self-defense or property, or for sports or animal shooting. It does not stipulate the number of firearms that the license applicant should have. Therefore, the number of firearms in the possession of the public is more than necessary. Those who do not have a permit are allowed to carry firearms in the city. Although the purpose of the offender is to carry the firearm in a public place to commit a serious crime using a firearm, the person has not yet committed the offense. However, the state can only punish the person for the offense of carrying a firearm in the city. Only without permission. Therefore, in order to suppress and deter such serious crimes. The law should establish a legal presumption that the person possesses a firearm to commit a serious crime.

Therefore, the Firearms, Ammunition, and Explosives Act should be amended. In terms of the determination of the number of firearms to the license applicant, the legal presumption should be imposed on those who carry firearms in public places that they carry firearms to commit serious crimes.

Guidelines for Preventing Crime Victimization of Foreign Tourists in Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Province

Achawin Ongwong — 2026-05-07

This study aims to (1) examine patterns and characteristics of crime victimization among foreign tourists, (2) explore problems and constraints in prevention from police officers’ perspectives, and (3) identify suitable prevention approaches within the context of Mueang Kanchanaburi District, Kanchanaburi Province. A qualitative design was employed using in-depth interviews with 21 key informants: 8 local police officers, 5 tourist police officers, 5 tourism business operators, and 3 foreign tourists. Findings indicate that victimization in the study area is predominantly opportunity-based, including property-related crimes, price exploitation and fraud, and conflicts or disturbances linked to alcohol consumption in nighttime entertainment areas. Major risk factors are spatial and temporal conditions such as blind spots, poorly lit locations, inadequate safety infrastructure, and nighttime activities, all of which increase tourists’ vulnerability. In terms of prevention, police officers face multiple operational constraints, including limited manpower, resources and budgets, insufficient support tools, language and communication barriers, and challenges in coordinating with local agencies and tourism operators. Synthesized prevention approaches emphasize proactive surveillance in high-risk places and time periods, improvement of functional safety infrastructure, multilingual risk communication, enhancement of officers’ language capacity and accessible emergency contact channels, and strengthening collaborative networks among police, local authorities, and tourism businesses to promote sustainable tourist safety and confidence.

Legal Issues Regarding Medical Measures for the Prevention of Sexual Recidivism Against Children in Thailand

Napjune Jansiri — 2026-05-07

This research explores legal issues regarding medical measures for the prevention of sexual recidivism against children in Thailand and examines relevant concepts, theories, and legal principles. The study analyzes key legal challenges and offers conclusions and recommendations for establishing effective legal guidelines to prevent recidivism in such cases. This qualitative study draws on a variety of sources, including legal documents, academic texts, articles, theses, journals, and online materials.

The findings reveal that recidivism in sexual offenses against children is a critical issue with profound impacts on society and the development of child victims. The use of medical measures to rehabilitate repeat offenders according to Sections 19 and 21 of the Preventive Measures for Recidivism in Sexual or Violent Offenses Act B.E. 2565 faces limitations concerning obtaining consent from offenders. A comparative analysis of foreign legal frameworks, including those of South Korea and the United States, specifically in the states of Florida, California, Alabama, and Iowa indicate that these jurisdictions have established specific provisions aimed at effectively addressing recidivism and fostering a society that ensures the safety and protection of children from sexual abuse.

It can be concluded that legal measures under Sections 19 and 21 of the Preventive Measures for Recidivism in Sexual or Violent Offenses Act B.E. 2565 should be revised to align more effectively with the enforcement of medical measures for repeat offenders in cases of sexual offenses against children under 15 years of age. The requirement to obtain the offender’s consent should be removed to maximize the protection of children from potential sexual crimes.

Judicial Process and Mechanisms of Conflict Resolution in the Case of Land Use Mapping in the Eastern Economic Corridor

PIMPRAPAI SNITWONG NA AYUDHYA — 2026-06-30

This qualitative research aims to analyze and synthesize the justice processes and conflict-mediation mechanisms employed in the formulation of land-use planning within Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), as well as to propose legal recommendations for establishing reconciliation mechanisms in the area. Data were collected through document analysis and in-depth interviews, verified using triangulation, and analyzed through interpretive content analysis. The findings reveal that the justice processes and conflict-mediation mechanisms implemented by the state comprise four key approaches: 1) establishing participatory processes during the formulation of land-use plans in the EEC, 2) adjusting land-use zoning and suspending development projects in response to local demands, 3) communicating policy to ease tensions surrounding land-use changes, and 4) implementing compensation and remedy measures for affected communities. Legal recommendations to foster reconciliation and social harmony in the EEC include: 1) ensuring meaningful and genuine public participation in the preparation of district-level comprehensive plans under Section 32 of the EEC Act B.E. 2561 (2018), 2) conducting regulatory impact assessment and policy evaluation, 3) amending the EEC Act to address concerns raised by civil society, 4) applying appropriate mediation mechanisms tailored to the nature of conflicts, and 5) eliminating existing conflicts while preventing future disputes. These recommendations aim to strengthen justice, trust, and accountability in land-use governance within the EEC.

Factors Influencing Housing Purchase Decisions of Generation - Y in Mueang Chachoengsao District

Yathanart Rattananawa — 2026-06-30

The objectives of this research were: 1) examine the factors influencing the housing purchase decision of Generation Y consumers, 2) investigate the problems and constraints affecting housing purchase decisions, and 3) provide recommendations regarding the factors influencing the housing purchase decision of Generation Y, classified by personal factors. The sample consisted of 396 Generation Y individuals aged 21–40 years residing in Mueang Chachoengsao District, Chachoengsao Province. A mixed-methods approach was employed. Data were collected from academic documents, questionnaires, and in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, t-test, one-way ANOVA, and simple linear regression, while qualitative data were analyzed by descriptive analysis. The findings revealed that 1) the factors influencing the housing purchase decision of Generation Y were overall at a high level. Among the dimensions, place had the highest mean, followed by product, promotion, and price. The hypothesis testing further showed that age, occupation, and the marketing mix factors ได้แก่ product, price, place, and promotion differed significantly at the 0.05 level. 2) The major problems and constraints affecting housing purchase decisions included price burden, the mismatch between income and installment affordability, location limitations, and incomplete or non-transparent project information, all of which affected consumers’ confidence and purchase decisions. 3) The study recommends that entrepreneurs should emphasize market segmentation based on age and occupation, develop products that fit the lifestyle of younger generations, set prices consistent with purchasing power, and communicate project information through digital channels in a complete, clear, and reliable manner.

Enhancing Innovation Enhancing Innovation in Public Service Delivery: A Best Practice on Award-Winning Local Administrative Organizations in Thailand

Anujit Chinasan — 2026-06-30

Public service innovation has become increasingly important for Local Administrative Organizations (LAOs) facing complex social demands, resource limitations, and rising public expectations. This study explored public service innovation practices among award-winning LAOs in Thailand and developed best practices for innovation within local governance contexts. A qualitative multi-case study design was employed involving five nationally recognized LAOs with different administrative structures. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, structured interviews, non-participant observations, and document analysis. The data were analyzed using descriptive and thematic analysis.

The findings revealed seven interconnected stages of innovation development: local potential analysis, teamwork development, civic involvement, implementation monitoring, outcome evaluation, inter-organizational coordination, and resource management. Four supporting techniques were also identified, including experiential learning through study visits, strategic communication, knowledge exchange, and collaborative networking. Successful innovation was also associated with enabling factors such as change-oriented leadership, supportive organizational culture, capable personnel, and favorable local contexts, consisting of five core processes and three strategic innovation drivers. The proposed practices may serve as a framework for strengthening innovation capacity, improving public service delivery, and promoting sustainable local governance. The study also contributes to knowledge on public sector innovation within decentralized administrative contexts.

A Causal Relationship Model of Emotional Intelligence, Self-Efficacy, and Job Satisfaction among Professional Nurses in Bangkok

Anuphap Thongbor — 2026-06-30

This study aimed to (1) examine the levels of emotional intelligence, self-efficacy, and job satisfaction among professional nurses in Bangkok, and (2) validate the causal structural relationship model of emotional intelligence, self-efficacy, and job satisfaction. This quantitative study employed a sample of 220 professional nurses in Bangkok, selected through Multi-stage Sampling following Cochran (1977). The Index of Item–Objective Congruence (IOC) ranged from 0.67 to 1.00, and the overall reliability coefficient was 0.98. Data were collected using a five-point Likert scale questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, as well as confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) through AMOS.

The findings revealed that the overall levels of emotional intelligence, self-efficacy, and job satisfaction were high, with mean scores of 3.90, 3.91, and 3.91, respectively, and standard deviations of 0.60, 0.69, and 0.64, respectively. The CFA results demonstrated that the proposed model showed a very good fit with the empirical data (p = 0.041, CMIN/DF = 1.186, CFI = 0.987, TLI = 0.981, RMSEA = 0.031). In addition, the construct reliability (CR = 0.86) and average variance extracted (AVE = 0.51) were within acceptable thresholds. These findings indicate that the model is appropriate for explaining the structural relationships among emotional intelligence, self-efficacy, and job satisfaction among professional nurses in Bangkok.

Problems of Restrictions on the Utilization Rights of Land Owned by Farmers through Agricultural Land Reform: A Case Study of Purchased Land by the Agricultural Land Reform Office

Pongsakorn Jittiwan — 2026-06-30

This research article examines legal issues concerning restrictions on the use of land acquired by farmers through agricultural land reform, with particular reference to purchased land administered by the Agricultural Land Reform Office (ALRO). Such land may become the full ownership of farmers upon completion of installment payments under agricultural land hire-purchase agreements. The objectives of this study are: (1) to analyze the legal status of land acquired through agricultural land reform; (2) to examine the scope of farmers’ land-use rights after obtaining ownership through the land reform process; and (3) to propose legal measures for improving the effectiveness of land-use regulation in relation to such land. This study adopts a qualitative research methodology based on documentary research, examining Thailand’s agricultural land reform laws, principles of ownership and restrictions on property rights, the rule of law, and comparative legal perspectives from Japan.

The findings indicate that although farmers have acquired ownership of purchased land, such land should continue to be regarded as part of the agricultural land reform system, since no legal provision expressly terminates such status upon the transfer of ownership. Furthermore, farmers’ land-use rights are not absolute in the same manner as ordinary private land ownership, but remain subject to specific legal restrictions consistent with the objectives of agricultural land reform law, namely that the land must primarily be used for agricultural purposes. However, the Agricultural Land Reform Act B.E. 2518 does not clearly prescribe the legal status of such land after ownership transfer, nor does it clearly define the scope of farmers’ rights and obligations or provide an explicit legal basis authorizing ALRO to monitor and regulate land use following the transfer of ownership. This legislative gap undermines the continuity and effectiveness of agricultural land reform outcomes.

The study proposes amendments to the Agricultural Land Reform Act B.E. 2518 to formally recognize the legal status of land acquired through agricultural land reform, clarify farmers’ rights and obligations regarding land use, and establish a clear statutory basis for ALRO to supervise and regulate post-transfer land use in accordance with the principles of the rule of law, and protection of farmers’ rights.

Organizational Climate and Job Satisfaction of Officers in Laemchabang City Municipality

Somkid Petchprasert — 2026-06-30

This research aimed to: 1) examine the level of perceived organizational climate among personnel of Laemchabang City Municipality; 2) investigate the level of job satisfaction among personnel of Laemchabang City Municipality; and 3) analyze the influence of organizational climate on job satisfaction among personnel of Laemchabang City Municipality. This study employed a quantitative research design. The sample consisted of 321 personnel working in Laemchabang City Municipality, selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a rating-scale questionnaire. The research instrument was examined for content validity by experts, and its overall reliability coefficient was 0.81. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as inferential statistics, including Pearson’s correlation coefficient and simple linear regression analysis. The findings revealed that the overall organizational climate was at a high level, with communication networks receiving the highest mean score, followed by organizational goals. Overall job satisfaction was at a moderate level, with recognition receiving the highest mean score. The hypothesis testing indicated that organizational climate was positively related to job satisfaction at the .01 level of statistical significance and could explain 58.3 percent of the variance in job satisfaction. The findings suggest that clear organizational goals and effective internal communication networks are essential mechanisms for enhancing job satisfaction among personnel in local government organizations.