Contextual attributes associated with public participation in environmental impact assessments in Thailand: Perspectives obtained from authorities and academics

Abstract

Context can enhance or hinder public participation (PP) in environmental impact assessments (EIAs). This study aimed to investigate and discuss how PP-related contextual attributes influence the quality of PP in Thai EIA processes. The study adopted the qualitative approach and interviewed 20 key informants with insightful PP-associated experience in Thai EIAs. The results showed that four major groups of contextual attributes are believed to influence PP in Thai EIAs: the legal and political frameworks, the capacities of key actors, environmental awareness and the right to participate in decision-making processes, and cultural context. The greatest strength of PP in Thai EIAs is that PP is mandated by law, followed by increased environmental awareness and the right to participate in the decision-making process. Different key actors such as project owners, consultants, non-governmental organizations, and reviewing agencies encounter difficulties in discharging their prescribed functions, which affects the quality of PP. The authoritarian culture of Thai society also prevents PP in EIAs. The study offers certain recommendations, including public communication about how civic inputs can influence decision-making processes, the employment of social sector specialists to facilitate PP in EIA, and the application of appropriate participation techniques associated with the prevailing culture.