BUDDHIST PRINCIPLES OF GOOD GOVERNANCE TO PROMOTE EFFICIENCY IN THE PERFORMANCE OF LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATIONS

Abstract

Local government organizations play a pivotal role in fostering grassroots democracy in Thailand, particularly in the aftermath of the 2475 political transformation, which emphasized decentralization and the active participation of citizens in shaping the direction of local development. Local government is therefore not merely a mechanism for public service delivery, but an institutional instrument for strengthening participatory democracy founded on the principles of morality, transparency, accountability, and justice—key elements of good governance. The effective administration of municipalities requires an integrative conceptual framework that combines good governance with Buddhist principles, giving rise to the notion of “Buddhist Governance.” This approach embeds Buddhist teachings into local administrative practices, thereby promoting both ethical standards and institutional efficiency. A notable application is the adoption of the Four Powers (Bala): paññābala (the power of wisdom), viriyabala (the power of effort), anavajjabala (the power of integrity), and saṅgahabala (the power of social harmony), which together enhance the competencies of personnel and elevate the quality, transparency, and fairness of organizational performance.At the same time, good governance comprises eight essential elements: the rule of law, morality, transparency, participation, accountability, efficiency, decentralization, and equity. These principles provide a strategic framework for strengthening the capacity and sustainability of local governance. Consequently, the integration of Buddhist Governance with contemporary local administrative principles constitutes an innovative approach that not only responds to the genuine needs of the people but also reinforces democratic stability at the local level. The ultimate objective is to advance balanced and sustainable community development across economic, social, political, and cultural dimensions, thereby enhancing the well-being of citizens and contributing to the long-term resilience of the nation