An Exploratory Study of Fiscal Decentralization for Children and Youth Welfare

Abstract

This research aims to explore the relationships of central, regional, and local administration in terms of fiscal revenues and budget decision; and to analyze the advantages and disadvantage of fiscal decentralization for providing social welfare for children and youth. The qualitative research method was used to explore the situation and construct a better understanding about the issues and the broader context on decentralization and public finance in Thailand. Key informants were selected for in-depth interviews according to their involvement in budget allocation for decentralization and social welfare for children and youth. The results indicate that central administration continues to play vital role in advocating policy through top-down approach to both regional and local administration, although decentralization is the key to ensure inclusive development of people’s quality of life, happiness and well-being. The decision making for budget allocation at decentralized level depends on whether the proposed plan aligns with the steering of the national strategies. The essence of being independent from central administration is still a myth due to the needs of the approval for planning and budget activities from the deconcentrated regional administration. Nevertheless, the opportunity to engage at decentralized level is applicable since the progress of decentralization has led to the increase in fiscal capacity for providing children and youth welfare at the local level. The key success factors for fiscal sustainability for children and youth welfare at local level include leadership skills, supporting agencies, technical support, local participation and evaluation.