In recent years, Thailand has embarked on ambitious national strategies to modernize its public sector, leveraging digital technologies to enhance efficiency and service delivery. The latest draft strategy (2567-2570) approved by the Thai Cabinet underscores this commitment, aiming to transform Thailand into a digital and innovative government that meets the needs of its citizens effectively.
Historical Context and Previous Strategies
The strategic development of Thailand’s public sector has evolved significantly, following the conclusion of the previous strategic plan (2556-2561). Subsequently, the focus shifted to align with the National Strategy (2561-2580), integrating public sector development under broader national development frameworks. Notably, reforms under the 2017 Constitution’s Section 16 aimed at improving governance also influenced these developments.
1. Post-Strategy Development Era (FY 2562-2563): Following the conclusion of the Thai e-Government Strategic Plan (FY 2556-2561), the Office of the Public Sector Development Commission (OPDC) did not draft a new strategic plan during FY 2562-2563. This period coincided with the implementation of the National Strategy (FY 2561-2580) and the creation of a framework under the national strategy to drive national goals.
2. Development of the FY 2564-2565 Strategy: Subsequently, the OPDC initiated the development of the e-Government Development Strategy (FY 2564-2565). This strategy aimed to consolidate guidelines for advancing Thailand’s public sector development within the broader context of the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (FY 2566-2570), specifically addressing Point 20 on citizen services and public sector efficiency.
3. Proposal and Approval of the FY 2564-2565 Strategy: The OPDC proposed the strategy during the 2nd/2564 Cabinet meeting on May 31, 2564. Subsequently, the Cabinet approved the strategy, directing the OPDC to circulate it as a guideline for relevant government agencies.
4. Development of the FY 2567-2570 Draft Strategy: Upon the conclusion of the FY 2564-2565 strategy period, the OPDC proceeded to draft the FY 2567-2570 strategy. This draft strategy aligns with governmental policies aimed at balancing and enhancing state management systems, the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan, and the policy on national security and preparedness.
Overview of the Draft Strategy (2567-2570)
1. Vision, Goals, and Key Performance Indicators
The vision of the strategy is to establish a modern, trustworthy, efficient, and responsive public sector that meets citizen demands. Key goals include advancing towards a “Digital & Innovative Government” and an “Open Government,” utilizing digital technologies to enhance administrative processes and service delivery efficiently. This approach aims to unlock economic and social potentials, fostering a competitive environment and ensuring sustainable development.
Key Performance Indicators include:
✓ Public satisfaction with service quality not less than 90%.
✓ E-Government Development Index (EGDI) ranking not lower than 40 globally, with a score not less than 0.82.
✓ Government Effectiveness ranking not lower than 204 in the IMD Competitiveness Ranking.
2. Strategies and Implementation Framework
The strategy outlines three main strategies to achieve its vision:
✓ Strategy 1: Enhancing Public Service
⦾ Objective: Ensure convenient, cost-effective, and diverse public services accessible to all citizens.
⦾ Performance Indicators:
■ Successful transfer of service responsibilities to other sectors, achieving 100% of planned transitions.
■ Online Service Index (OSI) ranking not lower than 40 globally, with a score not less than 0.82.
■ Transformation of 1,452 out of 2,420 eligible government processes into fully digital operations.
✓ Strategy 2: Strengthening Digital Infrastructure
⦾ Objective: Develop robust digital infrastructure to support enhanced government operations and service delivery.
⦾ Performance Indicators:
■ Completion of digital infrastructure projects as per timeline and budget.
■ Increased use of government services through centralized portals like Biz Portal and Citizen Portal, accounting for at least 35% of all interactions by 2570.
✓ Strategy 3: Promoting Innovation and Collaboration
⦾ Objective: Foster a culture of innovation within the public sector and encourage collaboration with private sectors and civil society.
⦾ Performance Indicators:
■ Number of successful innovation projects implemented.
■ Increased private sector collaboration in public service delivery.
Conclusion
The approval of the draft strategy (2567-2570) marks a significant milestone in Thailand’s efforts to modernize its public sector. By prioritizing digital transformation and innovation, the government aims to improve service efficiency, enhance citizen satisfaction, and foster economic competitiveness. However, successful implementation will depend on effective resource allocation, stakeholder engagement, and continuous evaluation of outcomes against established benchmarks.