POLITICAL PARTICIPATION OF CITIZENS THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA IN BANG PHLI DISTRICT, SAMUT PRAKAN PROVINCE

Abstract

This study aimed to: (1) examine the patterns of social media use by political parties in Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan Province, and (2) investigate political participation of citizens through social media in the same area. This study employs a qualitative research approach using a phenomenological methodology. The population includes local politicians, political party members, and residents in Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan Province. The sample consists of 15 key informants selected through purposive sampling combined with snowball sampling. Data collection tools include semi-structured interviews and observation. Data were analyzed using content analysis and thematic analysis.

          The results revealed that: (1) political parties and local politicians primarily use social media as a key tool for political communication. The main patterns include disseminating information and policy messages, presenting content in diverse formats such as short videos, infographics, and live streaming, as well as engaging in two-way communication and employing strategies to encourage public participation; and (2) citizens participate in politics through social media at multiple levels, ranging from following news, expressing opinions, and sharing information to engaging in online political activities and interacting with political parties and government agencies. However, the level and quality of participation depend on key factors, including citizens’ media literacy and the responsiveness of political parties and government agencies.