Democratic Values and Citizen Participation: Pathways to Political Empowerment

Abstract

This academic article aims to analyze the relationship between democracy and civic awakening in the Thai social context, emphasizing citizens' rights, voice, and political participation. The study reveals that although Thailand has transitioned to a democratic regime for nearly 90 years and has had 20 constitutions, democratic development continues to face challenges from coups d'état, corruption, and lack of genuine citizen participation. This has resulted in citizens losing faith and perceiving politics as solely the domain of the elite. Citizens' rights constitute the heart of democracy and are founded upon key principles including freedom, equality, majority rule, rationality, and fraternity. Meanwhile, the voice of citizens represents the driving force of politics and reflects the will of those who hold sovereign power. However, past electoral systems had limitations that did not truly reflect the principle of majority rule, necessitating reforms for greater fairness. Political participation is considered the essence of democracy, which is not limited merely to exercising voting rights but also encompasses engagement in public activities and determining the nation's direction. Key factors promoting civic awakening and participation include families that cultivate political consciousness, educational institutions that provide knowledge, occupational and religious groups, as well as government agencies that implement continuous policies.