Civicnet [www.thaicivicnet.com] is a network of civic groups in 40 cities who work towards enhancing civil society development in Thailand, by training change agents and encouraging public discussion via communication infrastructure, including TV programs, community radio, and public space.

In 1994, Chaiwat Thirapantu, the initiator and director of Civicnet, established The Bangkok Forum project to develop new public institutions and to encourage a sense of solidarity and purpose among Bangkok’s citizens. Through public discussions, political education, and public activities, the Bangkok Forum motivates individuals and groups toward increased civic involvement and responsibility.

The Forum seeks to redefine and restructure existing civic institutions, such as political parties and city agencies that currently do not encourage access to information or public participation in their decision-making. It strives, therefore, to act as a catalyst that cuts across organizational lines and helps Bangkok’s citizens to cope directly with their common problems through active public participation.