Public TV in Thailand

Public TV in Thailand

Prof. Dr Kriengsak Chareonwongsak

Senior Fellow, Harvard Univerisity’s Center for Business and Government

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

The rising popularity of the Thai Public Broadcasting Service (TPBS) opens our eyes to new possibilities for television broadcasting in Thailand. This station was established so all groups of people can participate.

Right from TPBS’s inception, its unique objectives have meant it has faced numerous difficulties. However, here are some suggestions that will make this new TV station truly television that belongs to the people.

Administering the station: Because this station is public, its income is capped at 2 billion baht per year. Therefore, the station’s board and administrative committees must work closely together to budget for staff salaries, station administration, program creation, program purchasing, technology and network fees, etc.

A team under the leadership of a Vice President Finance should monitor expenses and conduct quarterly reviews, so spending is both transparent and wise.

Managing the programming: Programs should include news, education, art, culture, music, miscellany, etc. An evaluation matrix can consider factors such as program length, style, and audience response. Prime time should be given to programs offering the most benefit to the most people.

Programs can be created for specific groups, such as the handicapped, youth, the elderly, the hill tribe peoples, or people with different religious persuasions. The Program Director should constantly evaluate which programs would best create a balanced selection for all sectors of society.

In addition, some programs should aim to inspire good works, helping to create a Thai society in which people really care for one another.

Evaluating the producers and the programs: Quality programs must be selected in a fair, free market process to prevent monopolization by any organization or group.

Inexperienced freelance producers should be given opportunity to vet their programs too, but the selection process should screen for quality to allow the station to promote new, imaginative shows that can benefit Thai society.

However, these new programs must be evaluated every time they are broadcast to achieve the highest levels of quality, public benefit, and entertainment.

Establishing public participation. Participation is one of democracy’s hallmarks. Therefore, the Council of Audience Members (TBBS Article 45) should be derived from people representing all of Thailand’s regions and people groups. The Council of Audience Members should be composed of a maximum of 50 people, who will bring the opinions of the people to
TBBS boards.

TPBS must also be open to suggestions, criticisms, and opinions from the general public. As the public is involved in shaping station policy, they will become more willing to financially support the station. Establishing these types of feedback loops will also help to guarantee that the station is owned, run, and shaped by the people of Thailand.

We should encourage TPBS, Thailand’s first public TV station. Giving careful thought to the administration, programming, evaluation processes, and public’s participation will ensure that this station will become a quality option for all television viewers in our nation.