This working paper is part of the Asia Democracy Research Network (ADRN) Working Paper Series for 2015-2016. ADRN is an independent network of democracy research institutions across Asia. It analyzes challenges and tasks facing democracy in the region and expands the scope of action-oriented, policy-driven research that supports the advocacy activities of Asian civil society organizations in promoting, consolidating, and deepening democracy. EAI is currently serving as the ADRN secretariat.

Abstract
This paper looks at the gender dimensions of support for democracy in Thailand, including political participation such as elections, protests, and connects officials at higher level and community leaders. The study finds that both genders are found not to differ in their level of support for democracy, but there are different factors that influence their support for democracy. Moreover, to improve the development of democracy in Thailand, trust in local government corresponded with greater support for democracy among both genders and decentralization efforts should be strengthened. To develop a democratic regime and motivate people to support democracy, people should participate more and have greater interest in politics, especially women. The way to change their attitudes is to empower women and provide more opportunities to participate in politics and have power in decision-making.

Quotes from the Paper

“With the interest in Thai democratization and gender perspectives, we , therefore, would like to study whether Thai women really commit to democracy and participate less in politics than men or not. Are the perspectives on democracy matter? Is there different level of commitment to or support for democracy between men and women? The extent of support for democracy in Thailand as well as the factors affecting such support based on gendered dimensions, which occur in the period of survey are also studied.”

“In 2010, low levels of political trust and electoral participation and high levels of following political news correlated with higher levels of support for democracy for women. In the same year, high levels of political trust and low levels of social trust and perceptions of corruption and bribery in local government correlated with higher levels of democratic support among men. However, in 2014 the factors affecting women’s support for democracy disappeared. In addition, this paper found that in 2014 men were more likely to participate in elections, while women were more likely to engage in forms of Unconventional Political Participation.”

“…in order to develop a democratic regime and motivate people to support democracy, people should participate more and have greater interest in politics, especially women. The way to change their attitudes is to empower women and provide more opportunities to participate in politics and have power in decision making.”