Guideline for the Development of Laws to Promote Youth Football

Abstract

This research article aims to 1) study the historical background, laws, and policies related to youth football in Thailand, in comparison with those of foreign countries, and 2) study and analyze the legal problems and obstacles affecting the development of youth football in Thailand and propose approaches to improving Thai youth football promotion laws in a Thai context. The research adopts a qualitative methodology

The study finds that Spain, England, and Japan implement hard law measures to ensure the rights of players related to contracts, labor, and education. In terms of football management and development, they employ soft law through regulations set by international sports organizations and football associations. These regulations establish standardized and unified systems that support a consistent philosophy in youth football development across all levels.

In contrast, Thailand lacks organizational and managerial unity, faces a lack of organizational unity and insufficient legal protection for youth rights, and faces issues such as employment contracts, inadequate legal protection for youth players, poor coaching standards, disorganized competitions, and the absence of measures for unsuccessful professional transitions. Although the 20-Year National Football Development Master Plan (2017–2036), which follows the "Thailand Ways" concept, has been recognized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), it lacks legal enforceability, leading to ineffective implementation on a broader scale.

Therefore, to effectively promote youth football in Thailand, a single core agency should be established to oversee youth football development. Legal measures should be enacted to develop policies and protect youth footballers’ rights. Amendments should be made to the Professional Sports Promotion Act B.E. 2556 to include youth football players. Additionally, tax incentives should be introduced to encourage private sector participation in supporting and developing youth football, ensuring sustainable and efficient growth in this area.