GUIDELINES FOR DRAFTING LEGISLATION AND DEVELOPING THE ADJUDICATION SYSTEM CONCERNING THAI MONKS
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Abstract
This article aimed to propose guidelines for drafting legislation and developing an adjudication system concerning monks that was appropriate to the context of Thai society. The study employed a mixed-methods research design, including a review of academic documents, legal materials, and related research, in-depth interviews with 10 key informants, and focus group discussions with 20 distinguished experts. The data were analyzed through content analysis. The findings revealed that it was necessary to integrate the principles of the Vinaya with modern law by applying the three-dimensional theory of punishment, which consisted of maintaining public order and legal morality, determining appropriate penalties in accordance with the Neo-Classical School, and emphasizing prevention and rehabilitation based on the Positive School. This integration aimed to elevate the Vinaya from a form of soft law to hard law that was practically enforceable. The essential components of the developed system included: 1) the enactment of supporting legislation at multiple levels, ranging from the Constitution to subordinate regulations; 2) a mixed adjudicative panel composed of experts in both the Vinaya and law; 3) an inquisitorial procedure focused on fact-finding while safeguarding rights in accordance with due process; 4) clearly defined jurisdiction that did not overlap with the Courts of Justice; 5) an appeal and review system; 6) diverse and proportionate disciplinary measures; and 7) independence from political interference. Furthermore, lessons from Sri Lanka and Myanmar reflected the challenges of balancing the autonomy of religious institutions with effective oversight mechanisms. Therefore, the success of system development depended on implementation in four dimensions: legal, institutional, personnel, and social. If these dimensions were fully integrated, the system would create transparency, accountability, and sustainably restore public confidence in Buddhism.
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