Today, many citizens may feel that politics has little to do with their lives, which should not be the case. To re-engage the people, politics must be redefined as something more than the domain of politicians; it must be seen as a shared space in which all citizens can participate. Citizens themselves must remain committed to the idea that public affairs, concerning their country at every level, should involve their participation in thinking and contributing. In other words, citizens should not feel that politics refers only to the government and not to themselves, as this sense of distance ultimately leads to growing disengagement from politics.
For this reason, citizens must develop political awareness and understand that politics is intrinsically connected to the lives of all people from womb to tomb. It is also closely linked to our local communities, society, and the nation as a whole. Such awareness is essential to fostering greater political participation of all citizens, grounded in the belief that everyone is a co-owner of politics.
Recognising the importance of this issue, the Promotion of Local Administration Foundation (PLAF) and KAS Thailand launched a workshop series titled “Citizenship and Participation in Local Governance.” This initiative aimed to enhance students’ understanding of citizenship and civic engagement, while also providing a platform to hear their perspectives on participation in local communities. It further sought to promote awareness of discipline, responsibility, and integrity. The workshops were conducted six times over the past year across six universities: Suratthani Rajabhat University, Nakhon Phanom University, Pibulsongkram Rajabhat University, Rajabhat Rajanagarindra University (Chachoengsao), Phetchabun Rajabhat University, and Nakhon Sawan Rajabhat University.
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