| Thais will head to the polls this Sunday for the first election since massive pro-democracy protests shook the country in 2020. Many hope to finally shift power away from the military and the monarchy.
Read Emmy Sasipornkarn’s report from Bangkok (with Loveday Wright)
Three years ago, tens of thousands of Thais took part in an unprecedented wave of protests against the military-backed government.
The emboldened, mostly young demonstrators also openly demanded reforms to Thailand’s ultra-wealthy and powerful monarchy, an institution with far-reaching political influence which has long been shielded from criticism by extensive lese-majeste laws.
The government responded with a clampdown, detaining and prosecuting thousands. This eventually caused the pro-democracy movement to dwindle — but even now, dissatisfaction with the country’s monarchy-military alliance has not dissipated.
Thais are still raising questions about the traditionally sacrosanct royal family on social media. This not only a sign of changing times, but also a considerable risk in a country where criticizing the monarchy is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
“What’s become evident is that younger Thais now believe in their rights and freedom to criticize any institution with a political role and that uses taxpayers’ money,” Puangthong Pawakapan, an associate professor of political science at Chulalongkorn University, told DW.
Given the growing disillusionment with the establishment, Thais, especially the youth, are hopeful the general election on May 14 will be the tipping point for change.
“Everyone hopes that this election will change their lives and the country,” said pro-democracy activist Patsaravalee Tanakitvibulpon.
Read the rest of Emmy and Loveday’s report |
