The Role of Sangha Administrators in the Contemporary Social Context and the Effectiveness of Protecting the Thai Monastic Community

Abstract

This academic article aims to examine the role of Sangha administrators in the contemporary social context and its relationship with the effectiveness of protecting the Thai monastic community. The study is situated amid profound social, economic, technological, and cultural transformations that directly influence the administrative structure of the Sangha and the public image of Buddhism. Utilizing a qualitative approach through the analysis of academic literature, Sangha legislation, and organizational management concepts, the findings reveal that Thai monks currently hold a "dual identity" acting as both practitioners of Dhamma-Vinaya and as state officials under secular law. Consequently, modern Sangha administrators must shift from traditional structural governance to a "proactive management" model. This involves integrating Buddhist principles, legal expertise, and information technology. Emphasizing the six areas of Sangha affairs through good governance, transparency, and digital crisis management using Big Data is essential. Such adaptation fosters social resilience and establishes a natural protection mechanism through proactive public welfare, ultimately ensuring the sustainable and effective safeguarding of the Thai Sangha in the digital era.