Thailand Faces Civil Servant Exodus: Rigid System Fuels Resignations

The exodus of Thai civil servants: A crisis of confidence? Thailand is facing a growing crisis as civil servants, particularly in key ministries like Public Health and Interior, are resigning in record numbers. Data from the Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC) reveals a surge in resignations in 2023, significantly outpacing retirements. "The numbers are alarming," says one OCSC official, requesting anonymity. The Public Health Ministry alone saw over 5,268 resignations, nearly 40% higher than retirements. This trend is attributed to several factors, including rigid hierarchical structures, limited career progression, and increasing workloads. Many young civil servants feel stifled by the system, seeking more dynamic and rewarding opportunities in the private sector. The government needs to address these issues to retain valuable public servants and ensure effective governance.