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Title Text

Opportunities for Increase the opportunity for ethnic and religious minorities to
minorities elect and be elected

Representation Improve how the National Assembly represents the people

Stable election rules Require more fairness in politics through stable rules that do not
favor some parties

Unrestricted information Increase the flow of unrestricted information, such as the media,
internet, and education system

Voting access Remove barriers that make it hard for some citizens to vote

Women Increase the number of women running for office

3.4.2 Citizen Priorities

Three areas of activity emerged as the highest tier of priorities:

Fight Corruption. Among almost all segments, the strongest interest was in fighting corruption
in Thailand. Participants raised many concerns about corruption that has thrown many government

systems out of balance, blocking opportunities and the state’s ability to fulfill obligations. Corruption
involves the misuse of taxpayer’s contributions, which undermines the foundation of trust between
government and citizens as well as reversing the development built over time and with great expense.

“For me, the most important topic is eradication of corruption, because I believe this is
the start of progress. If we can eliminate corruption, the country will develop much more

quickly.”
- Male, 18-39, Southern Region

Independent and quality judiciary. Across all ages and genders, are half of the regions
(Central, Northeastern and Southern), citizens were enthusiastic about efforts to allow the judiciary

to hold a more independent status from the legislature – as well as improvements in their capacity.

Fair Elections. Focusing specifically on electoral systems was a top tier priority for many,

overall, including among younger citizens and older men.

22 Citizen Attitudes and Priorities
for Strengthening Democracy