CISTU Faculty Contribute Expert Insights to National Dialogue: Technology, Elections, and the Digital Public Sphere
- International Affairs CISTU
- 27 minutes ago
- 2 min read
As digital technologies increasingly shape political communication and electoral processes worldwide, questions surrounding their impact on democratic institutions have become a central topic of public debate. In Thailand, these discussions are equally significant as societies navigate the opportunities and risks associated with technological transformation.
On 18 February 2026, Thanyaporn Soontornthum, Ph.D., Assistant Professor at the College of Interdisciplinary Studies, Thammasat University, shared expert perspectives during an interview on the FM 96.5 (Wave of Thought)
The interview focused on the topic “Technology and Elections,” examining how digital platforms, data systems, and online communication influence contemporary electoral dynamics. He emphasized that technology can be a powerful tool for improving elections — speeding up results, reducing identity fraud through biometrics, and boosting public confidence — but it is not a cure-all. Technology acts as an amplifier: it strengthens good systems but makes flawed ones worse by turning them into an opaque "black box" that deepens public distrust. Fraud doesn't disappear; it simply migrates to cyberattacks and data manipulation. For Thailand specifically, while digital adoption is strong, challenges like fake news and echo chambers remain, meaning that technology alone is insufficient — it must be paired with transparency, public digital literacy, and a culture of trust to truly support democracy.
This perspective reflects a growing body of international research suggesting that while digital tools can expand access to information and political participation, they can also intensify polarization, misinformation, and unequal access to political influence if institutional safeguards are not in place.
For the College of Interdisciplinary Studies, such engagement reflects a broader commitment to connecting academic research with real-world policy conversations. Faculty members frequently participate in media interviews, public forums, and policy discussions that address emerging challenges in governance, technology, and social change.
You can view the full interview at: https://thinkingradio.mcot.net/thinkingradio/th/news/list/145562