HIGHLIGHTS
- Thammasat University partners with key ministries and state agencies to translate academic research into national policy, addressing Thailand’s most urgent economic, social, and public health challenges.
- In 2024, over 79% (320 of 404) research and consultancy projects conducted through TURAC were commissioned by government bodies, underscoring the university’s public service orientation.
- Policy-focused studies—such as RCEP trade impact analysis (with NXPO) and blockchain for trade efficiency (with the Ministry of Commerce)—provide actionable insights for Thailand’s economic strategy and global competitiveness.
- Collaborative projects on social legislation and public health policy, including work with the Department of Women’s Affairs and national health research agencies, strengthen evidence-based governance and social justice reform.
Thammasat University, guided by its foundational spirit of serving the public, actively partners with Thailand’s key government bodies to translate rigorous academic research into effective national policy. Our experts collaborate directly with ministries and state agencies, providing the critical analysis required to address the nation’s most pressing economic and social challenges.
These research and consultation projects are conducted by professors and researchers at Thammasat University. As reported by the Thammasat University Research and Consultancy Institute (TURAC), this work is overwhelmingly focused on public service. In 2024 alone, 320 out of 404 contracted research projects were commissioned by government agencies. These collaborations demonstrate a deep commitment to evidence-based governance, ensuring that future policies are informed by comprehensive data and expert insight.
Shaping Economic Strategy and International Trade
In an era of complex global trade, Thammasat University provides vital analysis to government policymakers.
- Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP): Our researchers conducted a major study on the impacts and opportunities arising from the RCEP agreement. This work, undertaken in close collaboration with the National Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO), produced key policy recommendations to guide Thailand’s strategy within this massive trade bloc. [Read More: https://www.nxpo.or.th/th/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/รายงาน-RCEP-ฉบับสมบูรณ์.pdf]
- Blockchain for Trade: In partnership with the Ministry of Commerce, the university explored the application of blockchain technology. This policy-focused research aimed to identify pathways for enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness of Thailand’s trade economy. [Read More: https://uploads.tpso.go.th/67-โครงการประยุกต์ใช้%20Blockchain%20ยกระดับเศรษฐกิจการค้า%20ระยะที่%205%20อบ..pdf]
Informing Public Health and Social Justice Legislation
The university’s expertise is also sought to navigate complex social issues and modernize public law.
- Drafting Social Legislation: Thammasat’s legal and social science experts were commissioned by the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development (under the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security). The project involved a comprehensive study and the subsequent drafting of a new law concerning the prevention and resolution of prostitution, aiming to create more effective and modern legislation. [Read More: https://digital.library.tu.ac.th/tu_dc/frontend/Info/item/dc:303465]
- Public Health Policy: To inform public health standards, our researchers conducted a comparative study on alcoholic beverage labeling measures across 10 different countries. This analysis, supported by national research funding bodies, provides a critical evidence base for Thailand to consider new control measures, balancing public health imperatives with international trade frameworks. [Read More: https://digital.library.tu.ac.th/tu_dc/frontend/Info/item/dc:315302]
Through these and many other projects, Thammasat University upholds its duty as a public intellectual partner, working hand-in-hand with the government to build a more prosperous, just, and resilient Thailand.