The two steps forward, three steps back situation in our politics is not solely due to a lack of quality politicians. Another limitation is that the Thai people have not been sufficiently nurtured in political maturity, leading to the extreme polarization we see today.

Essentially, individuals with high political maturity are those who respect the dignity of others, value diverse opinions, and are willing to listen to differing viewpoints, even if they are radically opposed to their own. They know how to be flexible, not rigidly adhering to their own positions and demands without considering the societal impacts. They accept political rules, respect the law, are aware of politicians' actions, can distinguish between short-term and long-term interests, evaluate politicians' performance objectively, and choose their representatives based on achievements rather than personal preferences.

In a society where a significant number of citizens possess political maturity, the country's politics will develop smoothly and continuously. When events that affect society arise, the people in that society can find solutions together, and they will constrain politicians from deviating from the path, not idolizing politicians but using them as tools to advance the country according to societal needs. When politicians operate within these boundaries, progress will not be erratic.

Conversely, if this group is small in number, it will lead to societal division, making it easier for politicians and ill-intentioned individuals to interfere. No matter how hard they try, they will lack the power to oppose politicians. Without sufficient power to reward or punish, who will care about their calls and opinions?

Consider the political conflicts that have occurred over the past 15 years; it gives a vague picture of how much the number of citizens with political maturity in our country has increased during this time.

Even without clear statistics, it can be said that the increase is still not significant enough. Moreover, in some groups and areas, the number may have even decreased, resulting in Thai politics not progressing. Thailand lacks a clear direction for development that reflects the true desires of the people, leading us to remain stuck in a short-term cycle without breaking free to achieve long-term development.

This does not mean we should lose hope in politics and let things take their course. Although the political development in Thailand has been fluctuating, if we look at the trends over the past several decades, we have made some progress.

This progress is partly due to the sacrifices of those who wish to see our country advance, and partly due to the economic and social dynamics that act as an unseen driving force, gradually pushing the country forward. If we look at the world optimistically and remain patient, we can be assured that our country will certainly be better in the future; we just don’t know how long it will take.

If you are a bit impatient and want to see changes in our lifetime, we need to put in some effort to push for it, starting with three things we can do quickly.

First, stop using provocative, sarcastic, threatening, or intimidating language. If someone disagrees and you don’t like it, keep that displeasure to yourself. There’s no need to retaliate or express your opinions. The phenomenon of “social media backlash” is one of the negative examples of a lack of political maturity in this regard. Communicating with mutual respect will help conversations go beyond mere insults that devalue each other's humanity.

Second, respect the existing social norms that are seen as shared core values. Sustainable change does not come from a white knight; every change requires alliances from various sectors of society. Maintaining some common ground will make it easier to drive the issues we want to change.

Third, always remind yourself that Thailand does not belong to just one group. If we want others to value our opinions, we should start by respecting the values of others as well. Clinging to one’s own opinions without flexibility and empathy will only widen the rifts in society.

Whether you love or support any side, it doesn’t matter, because this diversity is the true beauty of democracy. If we all play our roles as individuals with political maturity, we will eventually find common solutions.

SOURCE : www.bangkokbiznews.com