Open Government and Policy Innovation for Local Administration and Citizens

Details

To achieve the expected outcomes, in 2023–2024, the OPDC implemented the project “OpenGov for Citizen” which aimed at providing space for local citizens to discuss and exchange directly with the related government offices, state agencies, and also organizations under central and local governments’ supervision on the issues that are relevant to their areas/districts/provinces and in urgent need of government actions or measures. During this period, three series of activities were organised, covering a variety of policy schemes such as the development of policies to support the cost of living, welfare and quality of life for the elderly, the restoration and conservation of green spaces, and the reduction of carbon emissions from industrial sectors.

Building on the success of the “OpenGov for Citizen” initiative in the past years, the OPDC is now expanding its efforts to open more spaces for public and multi-sectoral participation on a wider range of issues, with the expectation of fruitful cooperation with KAS again in this year. Therefore, in 2025, the OPDC will organise the 4th OpenGov for Citizen activity series under the topic “Participatory Marine Waste Management in the Estuarine Area”. The activities will take place in the Bangpakong River Basin area, Chachoengsao Province. The objective is to raise awareness and create inclusive spaces for citizens and stakeholders in the effected area to actively participate in sharing ideas and recommendations for managing marine debris, together with local administration and provincial government agencies. The ultimate aim is to brainstorm for innovative and participatory policy models to reduce the amount of waste at river mouths and minimize its impact on the ecosystem effectively and sustainably. This activity series are expected to play an important role in promoting good governance by improving performance of the public sector and emphasising public participation in the policy process. This approach enables government policies and measures to effectively address the real problems and needs of the people, ensuring efficiency and tangible results. Ultimately, it will help enhance the quality of public administration under the principles of good governance and strengthen public trust in government in the long term.

To prepare for the project’s main brainstorming and consultation workshop, the OPDC together with provincial network partners in Chachoengsao—including representatives from the public, private, and civil society sectors—will conduct a preparatory workshop and field visit on October 17. This session aims to finalise discussion topics, speakers, partner representatives, and relevant information required for participants in the main event.