Mechanisms for Driving Public Health Policies in Southern Thailand: Lessons from Natural Resource and Environmental Security

Abstract

This study aims to 1) examine the efficiency and effectiveness, 2) analyze the success factors and obstacles, and 3) propose guidelines for developing a system and mechanism to drive public policy for health promotion in Southern Thailand, focusing on natural resource and environmental security. A qualitative methodology was employed, with data collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 12 key informants, including representatives from supporting agencies, activity drivers, internal evaluators, and public communicators. The data collection instruments were a semi-structured interview form and a focus group guide, which demonstrated a content validity index of 0.72. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

The study results found that; First, The project was efficient due to collaborative network operations between sectors and the use of spatial databases. Its effectiveness was evidenced by communities successfully integrating environmental issues into local development plans. Second, Key success factors for driving public policy included network participation, government support, community capacity building, and continuous participatory processes. The primary obstacles were the lack of a main responsible agency, project discontinuity, and limitations in supportive tools. Third, Six development guidelines were proposed: 1) establishing a permanent local policy-driving mechanism, 2) enhancing participatory processes, 3) providing academic support, 4) allocating appropriate resources, 5) implementing continuous monitoring and evaluation, and 6) leveraging community potential as a foundation. The study's outcomes can be applied to develop participatory systems for local planning and create sustainable resource management mechanisms.