Sophon Promotes Youth as Democracy Foundation for 2027
Parliament President Sophon Sarum awarded 15 democracy innovation prizes on Sept 17, 2026, announcing regional expansion plans for 2027.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Parliament President Sophon Sarum presented 15 democracy innovation awards.
- A total of 99 entries competed nationwide before selecting 15 finalists.
- Parliament plans to expand civic education programs to Thai regions by 2027.
- Students enthusiastically surrounded him for selfies and showed strong support.
On September 17, 2026, Mr. Sophon Sarum, President of the National Assembly and Speaker of the House of Representatives, presided over the final round of the 2026 Democracy Development Innovation Award ceremony and presented 15 awards at the seminar room on basement level 1 of the Thai Parliament Building. The event was attended by notable figures including Ms. Nan Bunthida Somchai, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society, alongside parliamentary executives, teachers, students, community representatives, and various organizations.
This annual competition serves as a vital platform highlighting the potential and creativity of schools, youth groups, and local organizations. This year, 99 submissions were sent from across the country, which were rigorously screened down to 15 final winning entries. The high turnout demonstrates the strong enthusiasm and active engagement of the younger generation toward Thailand's political and governance development.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Mr. Sophon expressed his congratulations to the winning students, educational institutions, and participating organizations. He noted that since taking office as Speaker, his primary ambition has been the development of the youth, believing that a thriving and fruitful democracy must start from the very beginning with children and young people.
"What I aspire to see is the development of our youth, which will allow the word democracy in our country to blossom and bear good fruit, and that must begin with children and youth."
The House Speaker further emphasized Parliament's dedication to continuously running civic engagement programs, such as the Youth Parliament, mock assembly sessions, and the democracy innovation contest. Looking ahead to 2027, the Parliament has established a concrete plan to expand these educational activities out to various regional provinces across Thailand, ensuring broader access for students outside the capital.
Parliamentary initiatives such as the democracy innovation contest, mock assemblies, and debate programs function as critical instruments for political socialization among Thai youth. Extending these programs to regional provinces by 2027 not only bridges the civic education gap for provincial students but also fosters a robust grassroots youth network, potentially mitigating long-term political polarization through parliamentary discourse and mutual respect for rules.
The atmosphere at the event was lively and cheerful. Mr. Sophon cheerfully shared that he was deeply delighted and touched to see groups of young students swarming around him to take selfies and playfully signing up as his fan club members, reflecting an approachable and engaging leadership style bridging generations.
The atmosphere at the event was lively and cheerful, with Mr. Sophon sharing his delight at seeing groups of young students eager to take selfies and sign up as his fan club members, reflecting an approachable leadership style.
Source: Khaosod Politics
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