POLITICAL PARTICIPATION OF CITIZENS IN SUB-DISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION ELECTIONS IN LOEI PROVINCE: A COMPARATIVE CASE STUDY BETWEEN URBAN AND RURAL AREAS

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) study the level of political participation in Sub-district Administrative Organization elections in Loei Province, 2) compare the differences in political participation between urban and rural areas, and 3) analyze factors affecting local political participation. This study employed a mixed-methods research approach, collecting data from 400 citizens in urban and rural areas of Loei Province and conducting in-depth interviews with 30 key informants.

The findings revealed that: 1) Citizens in rural areas had significantly higher overall political participation than those in urban areas, 2) In urban areas, education level and information perception were key factors affecting participation, while in rural areas, duration of residence and social group membership were more influential, 3) Major obstacles in urban areas were lack of system confidence and time constraints, while in rural areas, they were lack of knowledge and understanding, and time constraints.

The research led to the development of the RURAL-URBAN Participation Model, proposing different approaches to promote political participation between urban and rural areas. Urban areas should focus on developing digital channels and building confidence, while rural areas should emphasize strengthening community ties and developing local leadership capacity.