Measuring the Quality of Elections: Case study of general elections in Thailand in 2019 and 2023

Abstract

This article is part of a research project aimed at developing knowledge and mechanisms to promote high-quality elections through public participation. It seeks to examine the quality of Thailand's general elections in 2019 and 2023, as well as to analyze the conditions necessary for conducting quality elections. The research collected 1,026 questionnaires from a sample of voters nationwide along with conducting documentary research and in-depth interviews with 28 stakeholders. The study found that voters perceived that past elections in Thailand had achieved only a moderate level of quality. There are 3  factors influencing the quality of elections including 1. Laws and regulations, which mostly impose requirements or prohibitions, do not sufficiently promote voter participation and oversight. 2. Voters’ knowledge and understanding about electoral participation are limited. 3. Thai political beliefs and culture continue to result in relatives and money having more influence on decision-making than public policy. To promote high-quality elections, 2 key aspects must be addressed 1. Establishing clear and detailed laws and regulations in order to avoid interpretation in practices. 2. Enhancing political literacy as a part in civic education.