The sufficiency economy philosophy and decentralization to create well-being in Thai society

Abstract

This research aimed to examine the application of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) in developing local administrative organizations (LAOs), focusing on enhancing participatory planning processes and sustainable local governance. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach, collecting data from 665 key informants representing executives, officials, and community leaders in 113 LAOs across Northeastern Thailand through focus group discussions and qualitative content analysis.
The findings revealed four major changes resulting from the implementation of SEP principles: (1) strengthened relationships between LAOs and local communities, (2) increased use of participatory management tools, (3) organizational restructuring toward openness and flexibility, and (4) a cultural shift from closed bureaucratic systems to open, transparent governance emphasizing ethics and accountability.
The study proposed the PCCC Model, which consists of four essential components — Partnership, Co-Management, Co-Ownership, and Commitment. This model provides a framework for inclusive and collaborative local governance, fostering community empowerment and long-term sustainable development in accordance with the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy.