GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF MORALITY AND TRANSPARENCY OF LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE FORM OF MUNICIPALITIES

Abstract

The structure of local administrative organizations in Thailand has undergone continuous development, particularly at the municipal level, which is the administrative unit most closely connected to the people. Municipal administration must be grounded in the principles of transparency and integrity to promote fairness and foster public trust in the bureaucratic system. Transparency has thus become a central principle of public sector operations, requiring the disclosure of accurate information and the establishment of effective internal and citizen-based monitoring mechanisms. Local administrative organizations must also respond to increasing societal expectations for efficient, transparent, and accountable budget management. This article aimed to study and analyzed strategies for promoting morality and transparency in local administrative organizations in the form of municipalities, focusing on five key areas: 1. public information disclosure by government organizations, 2. internal and external audit processes, 3. anti-corruption prevention measures within municipalities, 4. anti-corruption practices in foreign municipalities. Findings from the study revealed that: 1. The disclosure of public sector information, based on the principle “openness is the rule, secrecy is the exception,” plays a crucial role in promoting transparency within municipalities, but its effectiveness depends on the integrity of administrators and the enforcement of internal regulations; 2. Audit mechanisms both internal and external help institutionalize transparency, particularly through citizen participation in monitoring and oversight; 3. Anti-corruption prevention measures must integrate both ethical awareness and operational controls, including the use of digital technology and effective grievance channels; and 4. International municipal anti-corruption measures, which emphasize law enforcement, independent oversight bodies, and civil society engagement.