Abstract
The Evolution of the Tobacco Consumption Control in ThailandThis qualitative research study entitles “the Evolution of the Tobacco Consumption Control in Thailand” was conducted with an aim to systematically chronicle the evolution of the control of tobacco consumption as well as identify the factors leading to those critical events. Moreover, the process and approaches used by the organizations of various parties and impacts from those critical events were also investigated through the methods of reviewing of all documents available in Thailand relation to the tobacco consumption control and interviewing of 15 persons. The investigators also set up an arena for two sessions of brainstorming of thoughts from academics, administrators and implementing staff involved.This study uses the critical events as the determinant units of analysis and denominators for classification of the development periods in Thailand’s tobacco consumption control that can be divided into four periods. They are 1) prior to 1986: a period of unorganized efforts without continuity; 2) 1986-1989: a period of coordination and setting up of organizations; 3) 1989-1991: a period of forced open market to the imported cigarettes; and 4) 1991-1996: a period of legislative measures and tax enforcement. The classification of periods mentioned above makes one realize that the control of tobacco consumption in Thailand has been in existence for over four decades with the initial characteristics of lack of organized activities and continuity. It was not until 1986 that a non-governmental organization by the name of a No Smoking Campaign Project was established. This organization has set up interesting strategy, process and method of working in collaboration with other agencies. Later, there was an establishment of the National Committee for Control of Tobacco Use in 1989. A setting up of the Office of Tobacco Consumption Control in 1990 has subsequently led to a formulation of a policy, plan and better coordination among all agencies from different parties concerned. In addition, during the period of 1998-1991, a critical event took place where the United States of America used the article 301 of its trade law to force Thailand to open its market to the US cigarettes. This incident at the period of time has had major impacts on Thailand in many ways. It caused the Thai society to realize the negative impacts on the health, economic, social as well as environmental issues from opening its market to the imported cigarettes. It also accelerated the drive in campaigning against cigarette smoking in Thailand. An implementation of activities to control the consumption of tobacco during the past decade (1986-1996) has fostered a “value” in the Thai society to reject the practice of cigarette smoking in public places. This has resulted in a better protection of the right of non-smokers and a decrease in the rate of cigarette smoking among the Thai population, particularly those in the age group of over 40 years. The results of the data analysis of this study have shown the implementation procedures and methods used by individuals, offices, and organizations from many parties in the critical events. The data analysis also revealed the supporting factors leading to the success and those failing to facilitate the control of tobacco consumption in the past. Recommendations deemed beneficial to the future implementation of the tobacco consumption control have also been proposed for consideration.
