According to the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand B.E. 2560 (2017), which protects the rights and freedoms of Thai citizens, individuals have rights and freedoms in life and body, and equality. Both public and private sectors have jointly promoted public understanding of their rights and freedoms, including “consumer rights.” Every day, everyone plays the role of a “consumer,” whether consuming media, advertising, news, etc., or purchasing goods and services. As consumers, people should know their rights to avoid exploitation or being misled by false information. Promoting awareness is not just the duty of the state or any single agency. The key driving force and best protection against exploitation or deception is the “Consumer Protection Network.”
The Consumer Protection Network is a collective group that helps disseminate information and educates about consumer rights in various aspects, such as accurate information, selection of goods or services, and legal fairness, as well as protecting one’s interests when facing difficulties. Beyond relevant consumer protection agencies like the Office of the Consumer Protection Board, the Prime Minister’s Office, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Thai Industrial Standards Institute, Ministry of Industry, the creation of consumer protection networks in broadcasting and television promotes regional integration with representatives from each province and group, including youth networks. This builds media literacy strength and facilitates knowledge transfer between generations, whether from adults to children or children to adults. The “Consumer Protection Network” is a highly robust group with aligned goals and objectives, driving processes and creating genuine civil society participation with maximum efficiency and effectiveness, fostering integration between networks and relevant regulatory or complaint-handling agencies.
Civil society participation in consumer protection will be sustainable and serve as a knowledge connector for monitoring and tracking, creating a systematic and clear framework covering all groups. This is achieved by building networks of people with similar goals, objectives, or needs, including networks for disabled people, youth, and the elderly. One aspect that relevant agencies should consider in network building is developing volunteer leaders with knowledge to drive initiatives in their areas, moving from micro to macro levels. If all groups align their direction, creating an interconnected network across all areas and provinces, they can become recognized networks, building trust and sustainability in their communities and society.
Mr. Thatchayan Jianthanatkanon