E-Government Policy Implementation in Thailand

Abstract

This chapter investigates the current e-government and ICT policy in Thailand from an actor-centered perspective. It reviews existing literature on e-government implementation, while looking into the interaction of government institutions and citizens. It seeks to answer questions, such as the following: What are the key actors in driving the implementation of e-government policies in Thailand? How do Thai citizens perceive e-government efforts and ICT policy implementation especially in the context of present military government power? What are some of the risk factors typically embedded in e-government initiatives and policies implemented in Thailand? Some scholars specifically emphasize the key role of central government institutions in driving the e-government and ICT policy implementation pointing at its readiness to transform toward E-Government 4.0. These observations notwithstanding, issues related to the often-omitted crucial role of citizens and local customers in driving policy implementation and the problem of digital divide remain across much of the developing world.