GUIDELINES ON APARIHANIYA-DHAMMA-BASED DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL POLITICIANS

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1) study the Seven Principles of Non-decline Aparihaniya-Dhamma 7 in Buddhism, 2) examine the current conditions, problems, and needs regarding the development of local politicians in Loei Municipality, and 3) propose development guidelines based on the principles of Aparihaniya-Dhamma 7. A mixed-methods approach was employed. The quantitative sample consisted of 297 municipal personnel, while the qualitative data were collected from 29 key informants, including local politicians and stakeholders. Data were gathered using questionnaires and interviews, and analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and descriptive analysis.

The research findings revealed that: 1) The Seven Principles of Aparihaniya-Dhamma 7 include regular meetings, unity in meetings, adherence to rules and regulations, listening to opinions and respecting elders, honoring and protecting women, preserving cultural traditions, and safeguarding rightful values. 2) Identified problems included prolonged meetings, lack of coordination, legal and procedural challenges in enacting municipal regulations, and limited public participation due to inaccessible channels. The overall level of development needs was moderate () = 3.53, S.D. = 0.21. The highest development need was improving meeting coordination, while the lowest was honoring and protecting women. And 3) Development guidelines for local politicians based on the seven principles involve organizing regular and well-structured meetings, adhering to legal frameworks, respecting public and senior opinions, promoting equality, supporting local culture, conserving historical sites, and encouraging Buddhist activities. Emphasis is placed on public participation and applying Dhamma principles in daily life.