ELECTRONIC MONITORING OF DRUG OFFENDERS FOR SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY REINTEGRATION IN NA THAWI DISTRICT

Abstract

This research aims to 1) Study the process and problems of monitoring drug offenders using electronic monitoring 2) Study the laws and measures related to the use of EM in monitoring drug offenders and 3) Propose guidelines for monitoring drug offenders through EM to support sustainable reintegration into the community. The research is qualitative, utilizing document research and field research in Na Thawi District, Songkhla Province. In-depth interviews were conducted with 12 purposive-selection individuals 3 probation officers, 3 probation volunteers, 3 community leaders, and 3 families of drug rehabilitation participants. The conclusions from the document research were used to formulate questions for the participants to express their opinions on the process of monitoring drug offenders using EM, aiming for effective rehabilitation and sustainable community reintegration. Content analysis was then conducted. The research findings revealed that 1) The EM monitoring process improves the efficiency of probation and reduces the likelihood of reoffending, but limitations remain in legal, resource, and cooperation aspects at the local level; and 2) There are gaps in legal and measure guidelines and the protection of the rights of those being monitored. This is still not in line with international standards, and 3) Monitoring guidelines the EM system should be developed to be more effective, the laws should be clarified and consider human rights principles, and cooperation between government agencies, communities, and families should be promoted to ensure sustainable rehabilitation for offenders.