Integration of Buddhist principles to promote public participation in the administration of Tani Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Prasat District, Surin Province

Abstract

The purpose of this article to: 1) study the level of public participation in local administration, to compare the levels of public participation in administrative processes, and to propose guidelines for integrating Buddhist principles to enhance public participation in the administration of the Tani Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Prasat District, Surin Province. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, consisting of quantitative research using questionnaires to collect data from a sample of 380 people. The statistical tools used include frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, t-test, and F-test. The qualitative research involves in-depth interviews with 10 individuals, and the data is analyzed using content analysis within context and presented in essay form.

The research results found that:

1) In terms of participation in decision-making.  2) In terms of participation in implementation. 3) In terms of participation in benefiting. 4) In terms of participation in inspection and evaluation. 5) In terms of revitalization of Buddhist principles: Sāran­yadhamma principles.

2) Hypothesis testing showed no significant differences in opinions based on gender or age, thus rejecting those hypotheses. However, differences in education, occupation, and monthly income were associated with differing opinions, supporting those hypotheses.

3) To enhance participation through Buddhist principles, the local administrative organization should foster inclusive decision-making, mutual respect, and transparent processes. It should ensure adequate planning, personnel, resources, and budget allocation to meet public needs. Encouraging community oversight is seen as a means to strengthen transparency and organizational efficiency.