THE ROLE OF LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATIONS IN NACROTIC MANANGEMENT

Abstract

This research aims to 1) Examine data, statistics, academic literature, concepts, theories, policies, and legal conditions related to the role of local administrative organizations in managing drug-related problems in the Kingdom of Thailand; 2) Comparatively analyze drug management policies and laws in Thailand and other countries; and 3) Propose measures concerning the role of local administrative organizations in drug problem management for implementation in Thailand, emphasizing participatory approaches involving relevant agencies and the public. The study involved documentary analysis, in-depth interviews with five purposively selected experts, and focus group discussions with fifteen randomly selected experts from legal, public health, and multidisciplinary fields, including individuals with experience in local administrative organizations in Lopburi province, to synthesize and propose new knowledge regarding practical measures for Thailand. The findings indicate that principal challenges include access to treatment and continuous care systems, the dispersion of drug users within communities, and causes of drug use such as curiosity, peer influence, and proximity to high-risk environments, alongside limitations in central government policies and budget allocation. International comparisons revealed that Portugal has a comprehensive support system covering treatment and reintegration into family, community, and society, while the Netherlands emphasizes the regulatory and accountability roles of local authorities. Recommendations include the establishment of national and local prevention and rehabilitation centers. A new knowledge contribution from this research is the “Take Care Community Center” model, which utilizes technology to connect community data. The study concludes that the effectiveness of drug problem management is significantly enhanced when driven by local administrative organizations. These entities, possessing legal person status, autonomy, budgets, and legally mandated duties, are tasked with preventing and resolving drug-related issues and improving citizens' quality of life. They serve as primary integrating bodies in collaboration with network partners, adhering to the “drug users are patients” principle.