Community Safety in Respect of Implementing the Use of Community-Oriented Public Police Auxiliaries in Thailand through Comparisons with the United Kingdom

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the role of public police auxiliaries in maintaining community security in Thailand, using the United Kingdom as a comparative case. The study aims to examine key problems and obstacles in community safety management, identify policy recommendations to enhance public safety, and propose a community-based security management model appropriate for the Thai context.

Data were collected through in-depth interviews with a wide range of stakeholders in Thailand, including executives and practitioners from the Royal Thai Police, the Ministries of Justice and Interior, academics, civil society representatives, community leaders, and local residents. Comparative insights were obtained from interviews conducted in Jersey, Cumbria, and Dundee in the United Kingdom with senior government officials, police executives, police officers, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), honorary police, academics, and community members. A multi-agency focus group discussion in Thailand was also conducted to strengthen the analysis.

The findings reveal clear contrasts between the two countries. Thailand’s community security policy is predominantly implemented through a top-down approach, limiting meaningful community participation. In addition, Thailand lacks specific legislation defining the role, authority, and accountability of police auxiliaries, unlike the United Kingdom’s well-established legal framework. Although public participation is emphasized in Thai police strategic plans, effective mechanisms for community engagement remain weak. Furthermore, training and evaluation systems for community safety volunteers in Thailand are constrained by limited budgets and manpower.

The study recommends legislative reform, structural and administrative improvements, and the promotion of community policing and neighborhood watch initiatives to strengthen sustainable community security in Thailand.