APPLICATION OF THE 3S APPROACH (SEAL–STOP–SAFE) IN PREVENTING SOCIAL PROBLEMS: A LOCAL POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE FROM UDON THANI PROVINCE, THAILAND

Abstract

This research aims to study the perspectives of local politicians in Udon Thani Province regarding the application of the 3S approach (Seal–Stop–Safe) as a strategy for preventing social problems. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of seven local political figures. The research tool employed was a structured in-depth interview guide. Preliminary findings reveal that the two most concerning social issues identified by the respondents are: (1) the spread of drug abuse and (2) cybercrime. The results indicate that the 3S approach is perceived as a potentially effective framework for addressing these issues through proactive prevention, containment, and safety promotion measures. These insights reflect the practical considerations and policy-oriented thinking of local political actors in addressing complex social challenges in their communities. Addressing these issues requires the implementation of comprehensive corrective and management strategies. These strategies should include decisive, stringent, and systematic surveillance measures. Early interventions may involve community-based rehabilitation programs, while long-term approaches should incorporate legal penalties aimed at deterrence as well as the rehabilitation of individuals affected by substance abuse, particularly among children and youth. One proposed initiative is the implementation of the “3S” (Seal, Stop, Safe) project, which seeks to prevent and monitor the spread of narcotics in collaboration with neighboring countries. Regarding the issue of electronic fraud—particularly fraudulent phone calls targeting electronic financial transactions—there is a critical need for public awareness campaigns and educational outreach, especially targeting vulnerable populations.