Abstract
In this chapter, the authors examine the general concept of citizen participation and then consider the factors that are shaping the emerging role of citizens in planning and public decision-making in Thailand. Although public involvement of citizens is ordinary in the United States and other Western democracies, citizen participation is less common in Thailand, and may take different forms. Citizen involvement in Thailand is looked at in a broad perspective, inclusive of various influences, such as culture, religion, governmental structure, and national history. The authors contend that citizen participation is beginning to occur in Thailand, often through informal means, such as non-governmental organizations (NGOs). NGOs have found a niche in involving Thai citizens mainly on local issues. As the concept of Thai citizen involvement continues to emerge, it will take the unique characteristics of Thai culture into account and will build on existing methods of participation.
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Kahle, K.J., Wagner, T.E. (2002). The Emerging Role of Citizens in Planning and Public Decision-Making in Thailand. In: Romanos, M., Auffrey, C. (eds) Managing Intermediate Size Cities. The GeoJournal Library, vol 69. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-2170-7_3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-2170-7_3
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