Amalgamation of Local Governments in Thailand: A Case Study of Wang Nam Yen Municipality, Wang Nam Yen District, Sa Kaeo Province

Abstract

Amalgamation of local administrative organizations (LAOs) is an important approach for Thailand’s local government reform. The objective of the current study was to examine the process, problems, and effects of the amalgamation of Wang Nam Yen Subdistrict Administrative Organization and Wang Nam Yen Subdistrict Municipality, the first amalgamation in Thailand. The authors employed a holistic single case study design with documentary research and in-depth interviews of key informants.

Findings reveal that the amalgamation started with unofficial discussions between executive and legislative leaderships of the two LAOs. Village meetings were used as a platform to promote mutual understanding among residents and community leaders. A subdistrict-wide referendum was conducted, and it showed that a great majority of local residents agreed with the proposed amalgamation. Positive effects of the amalgamation include reduced expenses for elected officials’ salaries, increased investment budget, more extensive public service provision, and new public services. A negative effect is decrease in political representation.