Thai Government’s People-Centered Policies, Enabling All to Benefit from Growth and Stability

(09/11/2012)

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has stated that the Thai government has launched a wide range of people-centered policies to make sure that the benefits of growth and stability are enjoyed by all. In her statement made at the Fifth Bali Democracy Forum in Bali, Indonesia, on 8 November 2012, Prime Minister Yingluck explained her administration’s major policies and shared Thailand’s perspectives on democracy. She said that the people-centered policies include raising the daily minimum wage, expanding the coverage of the Universal Health Care Program, establishing the Women’s Development Fund, and supporting SMEs. She pointed out that the Government’s education policies, including the “One Tablet Per Child” scheme, ensure that Thai children can obtain the skills and knowledge that will make them well-informed adults, which are the backbone of any democracy. The Prime Minister stressed the need to protect the rights of the people. The best way to preserve democracy is to empower the people to value and participate in the process of democracy, by which it is possible for elections to take place. When people participate, they feel that they own democracy and cherish the values. And when democracy is overthrown or abused, people will rise up to defend it. This is what happened in Thailand in 2010. But this came with a cost, she said, as families lost their loved ones, and there was suffering among the injured. She is determined to make sure that this will not happen again. That is why her government is pursuing national reconciliation and firmly following the framework of human rights. She further explained that although her party holds the majority in parliament, she intends to listen to all stakeholders, saying that she understands fully that for a democracy to be resilient, freedom of speech, and respect for diversity of opinions must exist. Mutual respect and understanding among people in society help prevent disagreements and conflict. Non-discrimination helps all people feel that they are part of the whole society, regardless of race, religion, or income. This leads to her observation that government should be committed to promoting equal opportunity. Prime Minister Yingluck also said that creating opportunities for people on an equal basis ensures that everyone can take part in the country’s economic progress and development. This is critical for democracy, as both economic prosperity and social empowerment put people in a better position to be more responsible when exercising their rights. This also creates an environment that facilitates greater investment and other economic activities. Therefore, she said, the Government needs to make sure that the benefits of growth and stability are enjoyed by all. This means that all people should have access to basic needs that promote human security, education, health care, and other welfare support.