Thailand is moving to establish its first national action plan for open government, aiming to improve transparency, public participation and access to state information.
Government Spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said the initiative would give people easier access to government information and more opportunities to participate in policymaking, helping improve public services and reduce corruption.
At a meeting last Thursday, a Multi-Stakeholder Forum (MSF) approved four policy areas for the plan: combating corruption, addressing climate and environmental issues, improving the justice process and promoting public participation.
"The framework aims to make information on government budgets, procurement and other public matters more accessible, while giving people greater opportunities to submit views and participate in shaping public policy," she said.
Ms Rachada said state agencies would work with partner organisations to draft commitments and hold consultations with stakeholders before submitting the completed plan to the Open Government Partnership (OGP) secretariat by December. Thailand is a member of the OGP.
The initiative is also intended to support good governance and transparency standards promoted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
"Implementing the framework would strengthen confidence in Thailand, support the government's goal of joining the OECD and create a more favourable environment for investment, economic competition and long-term development," she said.
