“Abhisit” defined “new generation leaders” at the completion of DIP 16, pointing out that true leaders must have clear direction and uphold the spirit of democracy. Meanwhile, Korn Chatikavanij emphasized that life paths have no set formula to follow.Tags: [Leadership, Democracy, Political Training, Youth Development]
On 16 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party, took the stage to share the art and science of leadership at the 16th DIP program under the Democrat Party’s Blue Academy. He praised the quality and thinking of the DIP 16 cohort, reflecting that leaders’ successes vary according to their goals. However, the key is discovering one’s strengths and continually improving weaknesses, especially in communication skills and collaboration, which require patience and attention to people's needs.Tags: [Leadership Training, Democrat Party, Communication Skills, Collaboration]
Regarding leadership, Mr. Abhisit outlined three essential qualities of leadership that society urgently needs today, categorizing them into three main points:Tags: [Leadership Qualities, Social Needs]
First, a leader must have clear direction and guidance. A good leader inspires others to follow. At minimum, leaders need clear goals and mindset so society knows the path forward. National problems cannot be viewed solely through technical or academic lenses but must form a shared vision or societal picture to guide people within organizations or the country.Tags: [Vision, Leadership Direction, National Issues]
Second, a leader must uphold the spirit and values of democracy. Mr. Abhisit reflected that Thai society still lacks leaders who deeply understand democracy. Often, elected leaders favor authoritarianism, forgetting that democracy does not end with election victory. Leaders must respect minority voices, listen to dissent, enable public participation, and bear true political responsibility.Tags: [Democracy, Political Responsibility, Minority Rights]
“Thai society lacks leaders who uphold democratic values. We have leaders from democratic systems but with authoritarian mindsets. Those in power often forget that democracy doesn't end when you win elections or hold a majority in parliament. Leadership requires respecting minority voices, listening to dissent, and, above all, having political responsibility. It is insufficient to claim simply that nothing illegal was done,” Mr. Abhisit said.Tags: [Democratic Values, Leadership Accountability, Political Ethics] Mr. Abhisit said.Tags: []
Third, leaders must be open-minded and learn to collaborate with others empathetically. Especially talented individuals accustomed to self-reliance need to practice patience in hearing differing opinions, show respect, and embrace the principle of 'putting oneself in others’ shoes' by understanding people's true thinking and needs. This enables smooth joint efforts. Additionally, leaders must keep learning new things, adapt to technological trends, and have the resilience to rise anew from mistakes and failures.Tags: [Empathy, Collaboration, Resilience, Continuous Learning]
The Democrat Party leader invited determined young people wishing to see social change to engage in politics. While social benefit can be achieved in many roles, politics is the most direct mechanism to push structural law reforms. He also shared thoughts on dealing with life's uncertainties: prepare and train fully for what can be controlled, and let go of external factors beyond control, always ready to rise again from setbacks.Tags: [Youth Engagement, Political Reform, Life Advice, Resilience]
At the event’s close, Mr. Korn Chatikavanij exchanged views with youth participants, recalling his own youth alongside Mr. Abhisit. He said that at their age, he never imagined entering politics, instead focusing on a career in financial business. After achieving success around age 40, he crystallized his decision to enter politics to use his knowledge and skills for the public good.Tags: [Career Path, Political Entry, Youth Reflection]
Mr. Korn noted that the participation of young volunteers in the DIP program reflects a public spirit and hope for national improvement. Serving society has no fixed formula—some are ready to enter politics immediately, while others use this time to gain experience, skills, and lessons from the wider world to prepare themselves for the right moment.Tags: [Public Service, Youth Leadership, Experience Building]
“Whatever profession we pursue now, these experiences shape us into better politicians or public servants when we mature. Political parties must connect with all professions, and we hope the DIP network will serve as a link for us to collaborate in developing the country in the future,” Mr. Korn said.Tags: [Professional Experience, Political Development, Networking]
The closing ceremony of the 16th DIP Internship Program was warm and heartfelt. Party executives affirmed that today is not an end but a beginning—a starting point to build a network of young people who will collectively think, push forward, and drive Thai society toward a better future.Tags: [Program Closing, Youth Network, Future Development]
