Public participation in local community development: An integrated theoretical framework and policy approaches

Abstract

This academic article aims to analyze theoretical frameworks, mechanisms, and factors related to public participation in local community development, and to propose policy approaches suited to the contemporary Thai local governance context. The study employs a critical literature review and synthesis of domestic and international scholarship. The analysis reveals that effective public participation requires the integration of four theoretical perspectives: Arnstein's Ladder of Citizen Participation, Collaborative/ Participatory Governance, Social Innovation, and Bottom-Up Development Theory. Key determinants of participation span socio-cultural, economic, policy, and trust-related dimensions, while the dominant challenge remains ceremonial participation that lacks genuine power-sharing. The article proposes an Integrated Participation Model linking local innovation mechanisms, participatory budgeting, and co-production of public services, aimed at elevating participation to the level of genuine citizen power in alignment with good governance principles and the Sustainable Development Goals.