ARTICLES

27 May 2024

The Thai Senate: A Crisis of Representation in the Making

Napon Jatusripitak

The convoluted selection process and the likelihood of self- or vested interests overshadowing public ones in Thailand’s senatorial race mean that the odds of a truly representative body are slim.

2 May 2024

Political Stakes of Pheu Thai’s 10,000 Baht Digital Wallet Initiative

Napon Jatusripitak

The Pheu Thai Party is seeking to push through its 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme. If it fails, there would be significant ramifications for the party. Yet, even if it succeeds, there is no guarantee that the party will regain its electoral dominance.

Thai Elections Thai Politics Thailand

23 Feb 2024

Thailand’s Marijuana Politics: Down from a High?

Paul Chambers

The Thai government is racing to ban the recreational use of marijuna. It has its work cut out for it.

Thai Elections Thai Politics Thailand

22 Jan 2024

Democracy Beyond the Ballot Box: Digital Resurgence of Thai Civil Society

Napon Jatusripitak

Thai democracy might have suffered some setbacks after last year’s elections. But civil society organisations and their efforts to hold the government accountable underscore the kingdom’s democratic potential.

Thai Elections Thai Politics Thailand

A Pheu Thai Party campaign poster pledging a 10,000 Thai Baht handout should they win Thailand's upcoming general election is pictured in Bangkok on May 2, 2023. (Photo by Jack TAYLOR / AFP)

12 Oct 2023

Pheu Thai’s 10,000 Baht Gambit: A Political Promise That Spells Possible Economic Peril

Napon Jatusripitak

The Pheu Thai Party’s plan to provide 10,000 baht gift to Thai adults serves a dual purpose: stimulating the economy and reconsolidating its political position. However, it remains uncertain whether it will achieve success in either of these goals.

Thai Economy Thai Elections Thai Politics Thailand

11 Aug 2023

Pheu Thai at the Crossroads: Navigating Thailand’s Senate-Driven Hung Parliament

Punchada Sirivunnabood|Napon Jatusripitak

The Pheu Thai Party’s path to political power is strewn with many obstacles and the need to make difficult compromises with erstwhile enemies.

Thai Elections Thailand

4 Aug 2023

Wan Nor: Hero from the Deep South but Not the Saviour of Thai Democracy

Daungyewa Utarasint

The twin burdens placed on a veteran Thai politician hailing from the south will test his political skill and stamina. No less than the future of Thai democracy may be at stake.

Thai Elections Thai Politics Thailand

28 Jul 2023

One Constituency, Two Parties: Ballot Splitting and Divided Loyalties in Thailand’s Election

Mathis Lohatepanont|Napon Jatusripitak

Thailand’s two-ballot electoral system has uncovered divided loyalties among the country’s voters.

Thai Elections Thailand

14 Jul 2023

Pita (and the People) Versus the Powers that Be

Napon Jatusripitak

Pita Limjaroenrat has failed to secure approval as Thailand’s next prime minister. This underscores the stark reality: leaders in Thailand are not elected by the will of the people, but permitted to rise to power with the support or at least the acquiescence of the conservative establishment.

Thai Elections Thai Politics Thailand

7 Jul 2023

From Likes to Lies: Disinformation in the Philippines and Thailand

Aries A. Arugay|Surachanee Sriyai

Recent elections in Thailand and the Philippines have seen the use of disinformation. Currently, policy options to tackle such a phenomenon remain limited.

Online Misinformation Philippine Elections Thai Elections