Social Innovation for Farmer Development of the Office of Farmers’ Reconstruction and Development Fund

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1) investigate contexts, situations, elements, and factors related to farmer development conducted by the Office of Farmers’ Reconstruction and Development Fund, explore social innovation for farmer support, and propose developmental approaches for public management to strengthen Thai farmers. Through qualitative methods, the research obtained data from document research. More data were obtained through in-depth interviews and group discussion with 81 key informants who were secretaries, deputy secretaries, regional directors, and officials from each provincial office, members of the fund, and academics.  The results revealed that the fund was founded according to the Farmers Rehabilitation and Development Fund Act B.E. 2542 to the resolution of farmers’ debts. The purpose of the fund was to buy farmers’ debts or mortgaged assets from loaners and allow farmers to repay their debts without interest. The fund helped farmers not to lose their agricultural lands; moreover, they were given an opportunity to gather and participate in projects that supported their agricultural careers. Forms of social innovation found in this research included a gathering of agricultural organizations, career support, and offering help to marginal people to resolve social problems. The research also found problems and limitations including the complexity of the administrative structure and bureaucracy which resulted in difficulty in the management of personnel, resources, and budget; inconsistency in the administrative policy and objectives, favouritism among agricultural organizations, and agricultural organizations’ inability to gather together. The research recommended the reform of the organizational structure by enhancing flexibility and good governance and strengthening agricultural groups to promote farmers’ living quality.