Public Participation in National Security: A Case Study of Thai Cambodian Border Security and Transnational Threats

Abstract

This academic article aimed to analyze security issues along the Thai-Cambodian border and to synthesize guidelines for integrating public participation into the maintenance of national security, with a focus on transitioning from traditional security concepts toward a holistic, human-centered security framework. Utilizing documentary research, the analysis reveals that security issues along the Thai-Cambodian border are complex and multidimensional, characterized by the overlapping of territorial sovereignty disputes—such as the Preah Vihear Temple conflict—and escalating non-traditional threats, notably drug and human trafficking networks. These challenges directly impact human security and economic stability at the local level. By applying the ladder of citizen participation theory, the study indicates that effective participation requires elevating the role of citizens from being mere “informees” to becoming "partners" who actively engage in surveillance, joint planning, and collaborative problem-solving. Strategic recommendations include establishing formal border security forums, enhancing proactive information dissemination, building community capacity, and promoting cross-border people-to-people cooperation. Implementing these approaches will strengthen border communities and foster sustainable national security across all dimensions.