Journal of Political Science Mahamakut Buddhist University

POLICY AND MANAGEMENT FACTORS RELATED TO THE SUCCESS OF THE JUSTICE PROCESS

Oattaporn Bunthrue — 2026-04-30

This academic article aims to present policy and management factors related to the success of the justice system through document synthesis and policy analysis. These factors include: 1) Legal and policy development: This is a crucial factor driving the justice process and is applicable to all types of offenses and all stages of the justice system. Developing good laws and policies can increase public satisfaction with the justice system, reduce recidivism, educate the public on legal provisions, and provide opportunities for public participation in legal and policy development. 2) Quality personnel: Having quality personnel reduces case processing times, increases confidence, enhances success, and creates an efficient system aimed at genuine public satisfaction. This involves integrating the principles of equitable service and transparency in the justice system. 3) Equal access to justice: Citizens should have equal, convenient, and swift access to justice, ensuring fairness and appropriate redress. 4) Technology and databases: Developing a secure and efficient system for storing data and evidence in the justice system is essential. Policy recommendations include amending and repealing redundant and unclear laws; providing quality training for personnel involved in the justice system; prioritizing a citizen-centered approach to ensure all citizens receive equal protection under the rule of law; and enabling citizens to check their legal status through an application to streamline processes and improve decision-making accuracy.

THE CURRENT PROBLEMS CONCERNING WASTE MANAGEMENT IN THAILAND

kriangsak maungkheaw — 2026-04-30

This academic article aims to study and analyze the problems of solid waste management in Thailand, focusing on causal explanation and synthesis of knowledge from relevant literature under a systems approach. This study uses a systematic literature review of research, academic articles, and policy documents to understand the dynamics of the problem in structural, systemic, and behavioral dimensions.

The results show that Thailand's waste management problems are structural, stemming from a mismatch between production and consumption patterns and the capacity of the waste management system. Key limitations include policy discontinuity, ineffective law enforcement, lack of integration among relevant agencies, and limitations in infrastructure, technology, and public participation. Furthermore, the synthesis indicates that the causal factors of the problem can be classified into three levels: structural, systemic, and behavioral, which are dynamically interconnected.

In terms of recommendations, this study suggests that improving the efficiency of waste management requires an integrated approach, combining the concepts of holistic waste management and the circular economy. This will lead to changes at the policy, systemic, and behavioral levels of stakeholders, ultimately resulting in sustainable long-term development.

PARTICIPATORY MANAGEMENT OF SMALL PRIMARY SCHOOLS THROUGH NETWORKING: APPROACHES AND KEY LESSONS

Settha Tepsan — 2026-04-30

This article explores the role and significance of Participatory Management in small primary schools, particularly in the context of rural or marginalized areas where resources are often limited, and traditional management practices face significant challenges. Participatory Management allows all stakeholders, including administrators, teachers, parents, students, and the community, to engage in decision-making and operational processes. This approach not only enhances management efficiency but also fosters strong relationships between schools and communities. The article analyzes success factors drawn from various case studies across Thailand, such as visionary leadership, effective communication, and the use of information technology to support management. Furthermore, it suggests guidelines for applying best practices in other contexts, taking into account cultural and social factors specific to each area. In conclusion, Participatory Management is a critical and necessary strategy for improving educational quality and management in small primary schools, especially in resource-limited settings. Effective implementation of best practices and the development of collaborative networks can ensure sustainability and enhance educational value in these schools over the long term.

THE WASHINGTON ACCORD: “A FRAUDULENT TREATY” THAT CAUSED SIAM TO LOSE THE EASTERN PROVINCES

Thirapat Serirangsan — 2026-04-30

This research aims to study the 1946 Washington Accord between Siam and France to determine whether it was a legally valid international treaty or a sham agreement that resulted in Siam's loss of the Burapha region to France. France returned the territory to Cambodia upon Cambodia's independence on November 9, 1953. The research primarily focused on documents, covering the period from the Rattanakosin period during the reign of King Rama I to 1947. Data were analyzed using content analysis, emphasizing triangulation and classification. Data were then inferred using inferential methodology within the framework of the study.

The research results revealed that the 1946 Washington Accord was a treaty signed by the government of Rear Admiral Thawan. Thamrongnawasawat went to sign an agreement with the government of the French Republic in Washington on 17 November 1946, which resulted in the cancellation of the Tokyo Convention of 1941, forcing Thailand to return the Eastern Provinces, namely Battambang, Siem Reap, and Sisophon, to France.

However, the Washington Accord was not ratified by the Thai Parliament as required by Article 76 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand, B.E. 2489 (1946).

Therefore, the Washington Accord was considered incomplete under international law and regarded only as an executive agreement between the governments of Thailand and France, not a fully binding treaty. It thus could not legally repeal the Tokyo Convention, which had been properly ratified by both countries’s Parliaments.

Moreover, the Washington Accord was made under pressure and lacked good faith (Bona Fide), as it was influenced by threats and false accusations that Thailand had been part of the Axis powers. It also denied the people of the Eastern Provinces the right to Self-Determination to choose whether to remain under French Indochina or Thailand.

In summary, the Washington Accord, 1946 was an unfair agreement that caused Thailand to lose the Eastern Provinces without justice. Therefore, Thailand retains the right to reclaim these territories in the future.

MAINTAINING POWER IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF FIELD MARSHAL P. PIBULSONGKRAM ACCORDING TO NICCOLO MACHIAVELLI'S CONCEPT OF MAINTAINING POLITICAL POWER.

Ladawan Khaikham — 2026-04-30

The main objective of this research is to study and analyze the strategies used by Field Marshal P. to maintain his rule. Pibulsongkram, following the political power preservation ideas of Niccolo Machiavelli, had three secondary objectives: 1. To classify and analyze Marshal P.'s methods of maintaining power. Pibulsongkram in various dimensions, including managing his own forces, treating the old power groups, and selecting political assistants or advisors within the framework of Machiavelli's perspective. To compare the similarities and differences between the political practices of the Marshal P. Pibulsongkram and the principles in the book The Prince, particularly regarding adapting to circumstances (Virtù) and facing destiny (Fortuna) in the context of Thai politics 3. To analyze the limitations of Machiavelli's ideas in explaining Thai political phenomena, particularly regarding the revival of the role of traditional institutions and
Compromising with the old power groups in the second term was done using documentary research methods. The research design was descriptive-analytical. The study found three main ways to maintain power in various dimensions: treating the old power groups by decisively eliminating political enemies, managing the armed forces by using the army as the main power base, and selecting assistants. This clearly reflects the use of Virtù according to Machiavelli's concept. However, the study also found differences and limitations of Machiavelli's concept when applied to the Thai political context, particularly in the restoration and compromise with traditional institutions, which is a strategy not recommended in The Prince. Additionally, the failure to select assistants resulted in a threat to the leader, ultimately leading to the loss of power. Therefore, the research indicates that even Virtù This will be a crucial factor in maintaining power, but if there is a lack of prudence and an inability to adapt to Fortuna and the changing socio-political context, maintaining power will not be sustainable.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN WORK MOTIVATION AND WORK HAPPINESS OF PERSONNEL OF THE OFFICE OF THE BASIC EDUCATION COMMISSION

Aratchaporn Intaraprueksa — 2026-04-30

This study aimed to: 1) examine work motivation of personnel of the Office of the Basic Education Commission, 2) examine work happiness of personnel of the Office of the Basic Education Commission, and 3) investigate the relationship between work motivation and work happiness of personnel of the Office of the Basic Education Commission. This study employed a quantitative research methodology. The sample consisted of 296 personnel working at the central office of the Office of the Basic Education Commission, selected through simple random sampling. A questionnaire was used as the research instrument, with an overall reliability coefficient of 0.98. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as Pearson’s product–moment correlation coefficient. The results revealed that the overall levels of both work motivation and work happiness among personnel of the Office of the Basic Education Commission were at a high level. Regarding work motivation, hygiene factors showed a higher mean than motivator factors. Regarding work happiness, achievement at work had the highest mean, whereas love of work had the lowest mean. Furthermore, work motivation was positively correlated with work happiness at a high level, with statistical significance at the .01 level (r = .85). Among the motivation factors, hygiene factors showed the strongest correlation with work happiness (r = .84), followed by motivator factors (r = .76), both of which indicated high positive correlations. These findings suggest that enhancing work motivation—particularly hygiene factors—plays an important role in promoting work happiness among central-office personnel in public-sector education organizations.

POWER, POLITICAL LEGITIMACY, AND VIRTUE: A POLITICAL SCIENCE ANALYSIS THROUGH ROMANCE OF THE THREE KINGDOMS

Wachirapong Wongphankoon — 2026-04-30

This article aims to analyze the relationship between power, political legitimacy, and political virtue through an interpretation of Romance of the Three Kingdoms as a political text. It emphasizes the structural relationship among these three elements within the context of contemporary political dynamics. The study employs qualitative document analysis, clearly defining the scope of investigation based on the Thai translation of Romance of the Three Kingdoms by Chaophraya Phrakhlang (Hon). It incorporates a systematic literature review and applies an analytical framework grounded in Max Weber’s theory of legitimacy, Confucian political virtues, and Buddhist political thought—particularly the Ten Royal Virtues (Dasavidha-rājadhamma), a central ethical principle in Buddhism.

The findings indicate that Cao Cao represents efficiency-oriented power lacking a moral foundation; Liu Bei embodies moral legitimacy rooted in Confucian virtues, especially ren (benevolence) and yi (righteousness), yet fails to institutionalize such virtue into stable political structures; while Sun Quan exemplifies a balanced configuration of power, legitimacy, and virtue, particularly through the application of Buddhist ethical principles in political decision-making. The article proposes an equilibrium model of power, legitimacy, and virtue to demonstrate the integration of these conceptual frameworks. It argues that the sustainability of political rule does not depend solely on power or virtue alone, but rather on their appropriate coordination. This integrated perspective contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics of authority and legitimacy in contemporary political society.

GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY IN PONG DAENG SUBDISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION, KHAM THALE SO DISTRICT, NAKHON RATCHASIMA PROVINCE

Thaniya Tuksin — 2026-04-30

This research aimed to examine the perceptions of elderly people regarding the quality of services provided by the Pong Daeng Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Kham Thale So District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, and to explore future guidelines for improving service quality for the elderly using the SERVQUAL model as the analytical framework. The study employed a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires distributed to 303 elderly participants, while qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with key informants, including government officials and academics. The findings revealed that the elderly reported a high overall level of service quality provided by the Pong Daeng Subdistrict Administrative Organization (= 4.40). Among the SERVQUAL dimensions, empathy received the highest mean score (= 4.43), followed by tangible aspects of the service (= 4.42), responsiveness (= 4.41), assurance (= 4.39), and reliability (= 4.35). Regarding future guidelines for improving service quality for the elderly, the study suggests that physical facilities should be improved by providing sufficiently wide walkways and seating areas for rest. In terms of reliability and assurance, services should emphasize professionalism, speed, accuracy, courtesy, and high service standards. Furthermore, to enhance responsiveness and empathy, diverse service channels should be developed to better accommodate the needs of the elderly.

THE IMPACT OF POLITICAL SOCIALIZATION ON POLITICAL COMPETENCE OF GENERATION Z YOUTH IN NONG WAENG SUB-DISTRICT, SRI NARONG DISTRICT, SURIN PROVINCE

Khanista Jaiyuttitum — 2026-04-30

The objectives of this research were to: 1) examine the level of political socialization affecting the political competence of Generation Z youth; 2) investigate the relationship between political socialization and the political competence of Generation Z youth; and 3) propose guidelines for promoting political competence based on political socialization outcomes in a local context. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. Quantitative data were collected from a sample of 240 Generation Z youths aged 18-24 in Nong Waeng Sub-district, Sri Narong District, Surin Province. The sample size was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula, and participants were selected via stratified random sampling. The research instrument was a questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.988. Data analysis utilized frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and multiple regression analysis. Qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 15 key informants.

The research results revealed that: 1) The overall level of political socialization was high ( =3.91), with educational institutions having the highest mean score, followed by mass media/social media, family, and peer groups, respectively. The overall level of political competence was also high ( =3.98), with attitudes toward democracy having the highest mean score. 2) The four aspects of political socialization were correlated with and could jointly predict the political competence of Generation Z youth by 71.40% (R²=0.714) at the .05 level of statistical significance. 3) Guidelines for promoting political competence suggest that families should serve as open spaces for political discussion; educational institutions should organize practical democratic learning activities; mass media should present accurate and neutral information; and peer groups should establish networks for constructive political activities within the community.

DYNAMICS AND THE PROMOTION OF ELDERLY CARE IN THAILAND AND LAO PDR

Warinee sopajorn — 2026-04-30

This study aimed (1) to analyze and compare the cultural dynamics influencing patterns and methods of elderly care in Thailand and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), and (2) to develop culturally grounded recommendations for promoting elderly care that are appropriate for contemporary society. A qualitative phenomenological approach with a cross-cultural comparative design was employed. The research was conducted in Nong Khai Province, Thailand, and Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR. Key informants were purposively selected and included 20 older persons and family caregivers, along with 10 stakeholders such as community leaders, monks, village health volunteers, and social welfare practitioners. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions using semi-structured guides, with audio recordings and field notes. Content and thematic analyses were applied.

Findings indicate that filial piety remains the central cultural value shaping elderly care in both countries, with families acting as the primary caregivers and communities providing supplementary support through social networks. However, notable differences emerged. In Thailand, rapid socio-economic change and technological advancement have led to more diverse caregiving practices, including indirect care and increased reliance on digital communication. In contrast, Lao PDR continues to emphasize close, co-residential family care rooted in traditional practices.

Based on these findings, the study recommends integrating traditional cultural values with modern care systems, promoting collaboration among families, communities, and formal institutions, and encouraging flexible, context-sensitive care models. Such culturally informed approaches are essential for ensuring sustainable and effective elderly care in the evolving Thai–Lao context.

A NEED ASSESSMENT TO ALLOW THE DOCTOR TO END END-STAGE CANCER PATIENTS LIFE IN THAILAND.

boonpicha phusri — 2026-04-30

This qualitative research aims to assess the necessity of permitting physician-assisted dying (PAD) for terminal cancer patients in Thailand. The methodology involved in-depth interviews with 23 key informants. These informants comprised two main groups: medical personnel, including physicians and nurses; and policymakers, which included representatives from the Ministry of Public Health, political parties, and the House of Representatives' Committee on Public Health. The data were analyzed to compare similarities, differences, and stakeholder perspectives using Peter H. Rossi's needs assessment theory. The findings indicate that while the legalization of PAD is not considered an immediate necessity, it warrants future study and, if implemented, should be structured as a voluntary option. This is based on the escalating trend of the problem, as public health statistics show that cancer-related deaths are increasing and this situation is projected to intensify. Stakeholder analysis revealed that among medical personnel, despite divided opinions, the majority are not opposed to considering the process. They reason that due to dynamic socioeconomic conditions, a patient's self-termination of life with medical assistance might become a future method of end-of-life care. Policymakers predominantly view PAD as non-essential at present but are not fundamentally resistant, emphasizing the need for comprehensive research prior to any implementation.