The Rights to Movement of Thai Citizens During The Emergency Situation of The Epidemic COVID-19 Disease Case Study: Songkhla Province
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Abstract
The objectives of this research article are 1) to study the use of state power during the emergency situation of the COVID-19 outbreak. 2) to study the characteristics of the use of the rights to movement by the people of Songkhla Province during the emergency situation of the COVID-19 epidemic. Within the framework addressing state power in emergency situations and the concept of restricting the rights to freedom of movement. Using qualitative research methods. The sample group is people in the area of Songkhla Province, totaling 50 people, used the purposive selection method according to occupational groups. The research tool is an interview with a target group and data were analyzed using inductive methods. To lead to a discussion of the results and create conclusions of the study and then to write a descriptive narrative.
The research results found that. Use of state power during the emergency situation of the COVID-19 outbreak constitutes the Prime Minister's special exercise of authority in a centralized manner to safeguard national security within under two legal frameworks. It specifies the establishment of a COVID-19 pandemic response center as a specialized operational unit with commanding authority at various levels nationwide. In addition, the nature of exercising the rights and freedoms of the people of Songkhla province during the emergency situation of the COVID-19 pandemic. The nature of the exercise of freedom is under the framework of 4 main directives from the central authorities. This has led to distinct variations in how movement rights are exercised among the residents of Songkhla province across different professions or sectors. This study points out the centralized administration during emergencies can lead to unequal access to movement rights among the public. To address potential issues in emergency situations, central government mechanisms should support and empower regional and local administrations. By delegating authority, local governments can make decisions that align with local realities, thereby minimizing the impact on the civil liberties of the population.
Keywords: Rights to Movement, Outbreak of COVID-19 disease, State power
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