tambon

Thai government

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July 19, 2026

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In Thailand's government structure, tambon are communes composed of several villages. Since the 1990s, these tambon have been granted increased authority and the ability to elect members for their administrative organizations. This devolution of power has made tambon administrative organizations the most significant local democratic units in the country, possessing new administrative and financial capabilities. Village headmen (muban) are also elected, but their influence is limited by centrally appointed district officers and the tambon administrative organizations.1

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Thailand
Local government
In 1997, communes (tambon), units consisting of several villages, were given increased powers and the authorization to elect members of tambon administrative organizations. With new administrative and financial authority, these bodies have become the most important local democratic units in Thailand. Headmen of villages (muban) are also elected,…
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In 1997, communes (tambon), units consisting of several villages, were given increased powers and the authorization to elect members of tambon administrative organizations. With new administrative and financial authority, these bodies have become the most important local democratic units in Thailand. Headmen of villages (muban) are also elected,…
Read More