IDENTITY POLITICS AND THE TRANSFORMATION OF PARTICIPATORY CULTURE IN THAI SOCIETY
Keywords:
Identity politics, Participatory culture, Thai democracy, Digital media, New citizenshipAbstract
This article examines the relationship between identity politics and the transformation of participatory culture in Thai society, drawing on theoretical perspectives, case studies, and contemporary socio-political contexts. The findings reveal that identity politics—whether based on ethnicity, gender and sexuality, youth, or local communities—has become a driving force that expands political participation beyond traditional institutions and community-based cultural frameworks toward more inclusive forms of engagement in street protests, civil society networks, and digital platforms. While these changes have brought positive impacts by creating space for diversity and democratic deliberation, they have also generated negative consequences in the form of ideological polarization and social fragmentation. The article proposes policy recommendations, including the development of inclusive public spheres, educational reforms to cultivate new citizenship, constructive use of digital media, and the strengthening of democratic mechanisms that embrace diversity. Ultimately, it argues that the future trajectory of Thai politics will continue to be shaped by the complex dynamics of identity and participatory culture under the influence of globalization and digital transformation.
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