Reforming the Public Policy Process for the Sustainable Development of Thai Society

Abstract

Public policy plays a pivotal role in a country's progress. Regrettably, many past policies have faltered. A major contributing factor is the disconnect between policy objectives and genuine public needs, often resulting in policies crafted to serve political interests rather than the welfare of the populace. Political interference during policy formulation, coupled with a dearth of in-depth research and data-driven decision-making, further compounds these challenges. The execution of policies frequently lacks transparency, accountability, and adherence to good governance principles, leading to suboptimal outcomes. Evaluation processes lack rigor and fail to incorporate meaningful public engagement or rigorous analysis of pertinent information.

To address these systemic issues, it is proposed to establish a national policy research office dedicated to comprehensive policy analysis. Political parties are encouraged to establish dedicated research departments to inform their policy agendas. Furthermore, the creation of a national think tank specializing in public policy research would bolster evidence-based decision-making. These entities would conduct thorough research, offer strategic policy recommendations, and ensure the clear articulation, implementation, and evaluation of policies. By enhancing transparency and fostering robust public engagement throughout the policy lifecycle, Thailand can forge a path towards sustainable development.