DEVELOPMENT AND PROMOTION OF THE ETHICS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATION PERSONNEL FREE FROM CORRUPTION LOM SAK DISTRICT, PHETCHABUN PROVINCE

Abstract

The objectives of this research are: 1) to study Buddhist principles for developing and promoting the ethics of personnel in local administrative organizations free of corruption; 2) to study the components that affect the development and promotion of the ethics of personnel in local administrative organizations free of corruption; and 3) to study the development and promotion of the ethics of personnel in local administrative organizations free of corruption. The research employed a mixed–methods approach comprising documentary research from the Tipitaka, Commentaries, academic textbooks, research studies, and agency documents; qualitative research through in-depth interviews with relevant stakeholders; and action research via focus groups to solicit opinions and formulate human capital management guidelines. The informant groups included 10 Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO) mayors, 10 SAO chief administrators (palad), 5 local-government experts, and 5 scholars in religion/public administration (monastics/lay scholars). The instruments consisted of an interview schedule, a focus-group protocol, and the “Threefold Training Operational Set” (Sīla–Samādhi–Paññā). Data collection proceeded in five phases, from team preparation, field survey, focus groups, and knowledge synthesis to academic and practical forums. Data were analyzed by content analysis, analytic induction, and analytical description.

The findings indicate that the Threefold Training forms the essential foundation for ethical development: “sīla” establishes behavioral standards and transparency; “samādhi” reinforces emotional discipline and prudent decision-making; and “paññā” nurtures discernment against conflicts of interest. The enabling components of ethics comprise four core areas (skills, programs, discipline, and exemplary leadership) and five supplementary areas (transparent systems, welfare/incentives, organizational culture, law enforcement, and social–community participation). The resulting development model adheres to four principles: managerial support, systematic planning, sustained and earnest implementation, and the promotion of further education. It emphasizes instilling values of integrity, disclosure of information, creating safe complaint channels, and integrating principles of good governance with the Threefold Training. In conclusion, such integrated ethical development constitutes a key mechanism for sustainably preventing and reducing corruption in local administrative organizations.