The Thai government's justice policy from the change of government until 2023

Abstract

     This research article aims to analyze the Thai government's justice system policy from the transition from absolute monarchy in 1932 through 2023, covering a total of 63 governments. Using qualitative research methods, including documentary research and content analysis, data were gathered from government policy statements between 1932 and 2023, sourced from the Library of Congress Database, Government House, and Legislative Institutions Office of the Secretariat of the House of Representatives. The findings reveal that justice-related policies can be categorized into two main types. The first category includes policies directed towards specific agencies within the justice system, such as police organizations, prosecutor's offices, the judiciary, correctional facilities, and probation services. The majority of these policies targeted judicial organizations, with 37 governments prioritizing this area, followed by 14 governments focusing on police organizations, 9 on correctional facilities, 4 on probation services, and 3 on prosecutors' offices.The second category pertains to overarching policies related to the justice process. Notably, Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn's government was the first to mention the term "justice process" in a government policy statement. The administration of Police Lieutenant Colonel Thaksin Shinawatra was the first to establish a policy focused on access to the justice system, while the government of General Prayut Chan-ocha emphasized convenient and expedited access to justice for the poor and underprivileged. The current administration, led by Mr. Settha Thaweesin, has continued this focus by promoting efficient access to the justice system for all citizens.