The concept of a Sufficiency Economy for Thailand has evolved and developed over the past three decades, inspired and consistently encouraged by H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej. At its core is an approach to development which is gradual, step-by-step, balanced, “bottom up” and participatory. The economic crisis in 1997 emphasised the need for a development strategy which is sustainable and resilient, providing “self-immunity” from adverse shocks. Good governance is an essential component.
Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Board aims to promote the principles and practice of the Sufficiency Economy among all economic sectors - agriculture having priority - and within public administration and government.
Although the agenda of Thailand’s Sufficiency Economy is unambiguously secular and pragmatic, its rhetoric and philosophy undoubtedly emanate from a culture in which the population is overwhelmingly (90 + percent) Buddhist. This is the theme of our paper.
