Youth Democracy Network
The 11th Youth Camp: Glocalizing Democracy
©HSF
This three-day initiative represents more than a decade of commitment to nurturing democratic citizenship among Thailand's youth. Set against the scenic backdrop of Phayao, the camp offers participants an immersive experience that connects global democratic principles with local community action, addressing one of the most pressing challenges facing democracies worldwide: how to make abstract political concepts meaningful in everyday life.
The camp's approach lies in its “glocalization” framework, which examines democracy from both top-down and bottom-up perspectives. Participants begin their journey exploring “Democracy from the top” through active learning sessions led by Mr. Siwat Varnakomola and Mr. Natthaphong Pothasang, examining how democratic values function in an interconnected global landscape. Assistant Professor Dr. Chatthip Chaichakan and Assistant Professor Dararat Khampeng then guide students through democratic innovations, exploring contemporary challenges facing governance systems worldwide. This global lens provides context for understanding Thailand's own democratic evolution and the universal principles that unite democratic societies across borders.
The second day shifts the focus with “Democracy from below,” grounding abstract concepts in Thai political reality through lectures by Ms. Kanlayaphon Kanin and Assistant Professor Dararat Khampeng, city tours, and powerful film-based discussions. Ms. Sarinee Passayawan and Mr. Siwat Varnakomola lead a screening of “First They Killed My Father,” which serves as a sobering reminder of what happens when democratic institutions fail, followed by guided discussions connecting historical lessons to present-day challenges. This emotional and intellectual engagement transforms democracy from a textbook concept into a lived value worth protecting, while the Phayao Lake city tour reinforces how democratic principles manifest in local governance and community spaces.
What distinguishes this camp from traditional civic education programs is its emphasis on creative action and innovation. Assistant Professor Dr. Numtip Smerchuar conducts a workshop on “Innovation Pitching Mastery,” teaching participants to articulate their ideas effectively. Rather than simply learning about democracy, participants are challenged to envision and pitch their own “democratic innovations”—practical solutions to real governance challenges facing Thai communities. Through design thinking workshops and brainstorming sessions, young people move from passive consumers of political knowledge to active creators of democratic change. The final day's Innovation Pitching competition, evaluated by Assistant Professor Dr. Chatthip Chaichakan and Assistant Professor Dararat Khampeng, gives participants a platform to present their ideas, fostering both confidence and practical skills in advocacy and public communication.
Since 2015, the partnership between the School of Political and Social Science at the University of Phayao and Hanns Seidel Foundation Thailand has successfully cultivated a network of democratically engaged young citizens who understand their rights, responsibilities, and potential for impact. Such initiatives prove essential in building the next generation of informed, creative, and committed citizens. By connecting global democratic ideals with local action, the camp doesn't just teach democracy—it helps young Thais live it, ensuring that democratic values remain vibrant and relevant in their communities long after the three days in Phayao conclude.
