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Chapter 3 : FINDINGS

3.1 Current Perceptions of Democracy in Thailand

3.1.1 Context for Citizens of Thailand

Love and pride in home. Citizens are quick to share the many things they enjoy in
their province, especially the natural wonders and fresh produce, the culture, historic centers

of learning and religion, and sights that attract tourists. The cities have economic opportunities,
a variety of diversions, and traffic congestion that everyone can complain about.

Responsibility and acceptance. Understanding the values and expectations of Thai people
can partially explain their disappointment and frustration with the recent challenges to the political

system. Citizens are expected to gain an education, find work, preferably a career, and contribute
to the needs of the family and possibly help the country’s development. The lessons passed from
parents to children are an important part of being raised Thai. Children are raised to be honest,

kind, and caring. There is an informal social contract in which the citizens comply and in return
the government provides something worthy in return. The country has immense pride in its unity,
history and place in the region.

“We must accept the existence of karma and a social order.”

- Male, 18-39, Northern Region

“What the government expects from its citizens, first of all, is to comply with the framework

of the law, rights, freedoms of a democratic system. And what people expect from the
government is honesty, transparent work, and development of the country towards the

right direction.”
- Male, 40+, Northeast Region

“I think that the government expects the people to live in honest way, bring the money, pay
taxes,.. and the government has more expectation that the people are not burdensome,
do not harm society.”

- Male, 40+, Northeast Region

10 Citizen Attitudes and Priorities
for Strengthening Democracy