Measurement of Socio-Economic Misery in Songkhla in 2016

Abstract

This article seeks to measure the level of socio-economic misery in Songkhla in 2016. The level of socio-economic misery in any economic zone can be measured using a particular set of variables and indexes. Using data from the National Statistical Office with additional information gathered through surveys, we found that the total socioeconomic misery score in Songkhla was equal to 84.36 and comprised of: (1) poverty rate, (2) unemployment rate, (3) family debt rate, (4) regressive rate of local per capita income, (5) unfulfillment of basic minimum needs, and (6) increment rate of crime. Such information could be used as critical inputs to the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization’s local development strategic goals.