Evaluation of Drug Abuse Solution Policies for Promoting Public Happiness in Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This research aimed to evaluate the policy on drug problem resolution for enhancing public happiness in Chiang Mai Province and to analyze the factors affecting the implementation of this policy at the district level, which resulted in varying policy outcomes across different districts. The study employed a qualitative research methodology through in-depth interviews with 17 purposively selected key informants.

The findings revealed that the policy on drug problem resolution for enhancing public happiness in Chiang Mai Province was successfully implemented for two major reasons. First, the outcomes of policy implementation were consistent with the concept of policy evaluation, as the policy was ultimately able to achieve its intended objectives and fulfill the goals established at the outset. This finding is consistent with the definition of policy evaluation presented in the literature review. Specifically, the concept of policy evaluation emphasizes examining and assessing whether the outcomes achieved under a policy correspond to its original objectives. If the outcomes align with the policy objectives, the policy is considered successful in terms of effectiveness. Conversely, if the outcomes do not correspond to the intended objectives, the policy may require review and lesson-learning processes to support further policy improvement. Second, the outcomes of policy implementation could be evaluated and measured. Districts in Chiang Mai Province implemented the policy and were able to demonstrate their achievements through measurable indicators, particularly the percentage of cumulative screening and urine drug testing conducted among the target population specified by the policy.