Social Context of Southern Thailand and the Advancement of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy by Local Administrative Organization

Abstract

This study examines how social context in Southern Thailand shapes the form, mechanisms, and outcomes of implementing the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) by local administrative organizations. Drawing on Institutional Theory and Social Capital Theory, the study conceptualizes social context as institutional structures and social capital that determine implementation through mediating mechanisms. A mixed-methods, qualitative-dominant comparative case study was conducted across 28 local governments. in Southern Thailand using document analysis, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and a twelve-indicator assessment framework.
The findings show that areas with supportive institutional structures and high bonding and linking social capital tend to develop participatory governance mechanisms and value-based leadership, leading to deeper internalization of SEP. In contrast, areas with loose social networks and formalized administrative practices tend to remain at superficial or partial levels of implementation. The study concludes that successful implementation depends not merely on policy design but on the institutional embeddedness and social relations of each locality. It recommends adopting a place-based policy approach that allows local governments to adapt implementation strategies to their specific social contexts.