Policy Analysis in Thailand

“This is a rich collection of essays on the complex world of public policy in Thailand, which has many institutions and practices not found elsewhere. It is a valuable contribution to the small but growing literature on the public policy process in developing countries.” M. Ramesh, National University of Singapore and International Public Policy Association

“A significant contribution to Asian policy literature that makes an important start towards correcting the Western bias prominent in public policy studies. It will be essential reading to both scholars and students of policy processes.” Frank Fischer, Humboldt University

“This book offers useful insights into the theory and practice of policy analysis in Thailand. It will be an essential resource for academics and for future development and innovation.” Yu-Ying Kuo, National Taipei University

Ora-orn Poocharoen is Founding Director of the School of Public Policy, Chiang Mai University.

Piyapong Boossabong is Assistant Professor at the School of Public Policy, Chiang Mai University.

Introduction - Ora-orn Poocharoen and Piyapong Boossabong

Part 1: History, styles and methods of policy analysis in Thailand

1. History and styles of policy analysis in Thailand - Piyapong Boossabong

2. Methods of policy analysis in Thailand: bureaucratic, managerial, academic and participatory orientations - Arunee Santhitiwanich

Part 2: Policy analysis within executive government

3. Policy analysis in central government - Theerapat Ungsuchaval

4. Policy analysis in Thai local governments - Pobsook Chamchong

5. Collaboration, networks and policy analysis in Thailand - Chatthip Chaichakan

Part 3: Policy analysis beyond executive government

6. Monarchy and Thai meta-policy: the early years of Rama X’s reign - Khorapin Phuaphansawat and Puangchon Unchanam

7. The role of the Thai military in policy analysis: unpacking three faces of the military in the non-military policy domain - Wasin Punthong

8. Parliamentary committees, legislative supporting agencies and policy advice - Tatchalerm Sudhipongpracha

9. The role of expert policy advisory boards, consultants and think tanks in policy analysis - Ora-orn Poocharoen, Patamawadee Jongruck, Phanuphat Chattragul and Malinee Khumsupa

10. Political movements as expression of public opinion for agenda setting in Thailand - Watcharabon Buddharaksa

Part 4: Political parties and interest groups in policy analysis

11. Political parties and policy analysis - Chanintorn Pensute

12. Business associations and policy analysis - Warathida Chaiyapa and Vorapat Chutima

13. The role of the community sector and civil society in policy analysis - Theerapat Ungsuchaval and Wachirawat Ariyasirichot

14. The influence of Thailand’s social movements on policy analysis - Nattakant Akarapongpisak

Part 5: Policy analysis education and research

15. Policy analysis instruction in Thailand - Piyakorn Whangmahaporn

16. Non-traditional policy studies in Thailand - Theerapat Ungsuchaval

17. Policy research in academic institutions - Chumphol Aunphattanasilp

18. Transition and prospects of Thai policy analysis - Ora-orn Poocharoen and Piyapong Boossabong