DRUG ABUSE MANAGEMENT IN THAILAND: CHALLENGES AND DEVELOPMENT APPROACHES

Abstract

The management of drug-related issues in Thailand presents a challenging task that requires cooperation from all sectors. This article aims to provide an overview of the current situation, present management approaches, and offer recommendations for future development. The researchers employed a mixed-methods research approach, comprising a systematic literature review, analysis of relevant policy documents and reports, in-depth interviews with drug policy experts, and surveys of field practitioners. The study reveals that Thailand has shifted its perspective from punishment to treatment, viewing drug users as “patients” rather than “criminals.” The treatment process has been restructured into four main stages: pre-treatment preparation, detoxification, rehabilitation, and post - treatment follow - up. However, several challenges persist, including lack of continuity in operations, shortage of personnel and budget, relapse issues, and online drug proliferation. With a relapse rate as high as 30 - 40 percent in the first year after treatment, the drug problem has a severe impact on all sectors of society, both economically and socially, and especially the youth, who are the future of the nation. Drug addicts are affected in many ways, both physically. Based on qualitative and quantitative data analysis, this article proposes development strategies, including enhancing inter-agency collaboration, improving personnel capacity, promoting community involvement, refining laws and policies, encouraging research and innovation, and developing online prevention and suppression systems. The findings of this study emphasize that sustainable drug problem resolution requires cooperation from all sectors, including government, private sector, and civil society, to create a safer society with improved quality of life for all. The new knowledge gained from this study will be beneficial for future policy formulation and operational practices in addressing drug-related issues in Thailand.