protests_064
The ongoing 2020 Thai protests are a series of protests against the government of Prayut Chan-o-cha, which have included demands for reform of the Thai monarchy unprecedented in the contemporary era. The protests were initially triggered by the dissolutio
Date: 10/17/2020
The ongoing 2020 Thai protests are a series of protests against the government of Prayut Chan-o-cha, which have included demands for reform of the Thai monarchy unprecedented in the contemporary era. The protests were initially triggered by the dissolution of the Future Forward Party in late February 2020. The party was critical of Prayut and the country's political landscape designed by the current 2017 constitution. This first wave of protests was held exclusively on academic campuses and was brought to a halt by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The protests erupted again on 18 July in a large demonstration organized under the Free Youth umbrella at the Democracy Monument. Three demands were presented to the government: the dissolution of parliament, ending intimidation of the people, and the drafting of a new constitution. The July protests were triggered by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and enforcement of the lockdown Emergency Decree and spread nationwide.
Periodic mass demonstrations followed. On 3 August, two student groups publicly raised demands to reform the monarchy, breaking a long taboo of publicly criticizing the monarchy. A week later, ten demands for monarchy reform were declared. MPs tabled motions to reform the Constitution, and a parliamentary dialogue forum involving proposals of monarchy reform was set up. A 19 September rally saw 20,000–100,000 protesters and has been described as an open challenge to King Vajiralongkorn. A government decision to delay voting on a constitutional amendment in late September fueled nearly unprecedented[23] public republican sentiment. Following mass protests on 14 October, a "severe" state of emergency, which gave more emergency powers to the authorities compared to those given by the Emergency Decree since March, was declared in Bangkok on the 15th citing the alleged blocking of a royal motorcade. Protests continued despite the ban, prompting a crackdown by police on 16 October.
Government responses have included filing criminal charges using the Emergency Decree; arbitrary detention and police intimidation; delaying tactics; the deployment of military information warfare units; media censorship; the mobilization of pro-government and royalist groups; which have accused the protesters of receiving support from foreign governments or NGOs as part of a global conspiracy against Thailand; and the deployment of thousands of police at protests. The government has ordered university chancellors to prevent students from demanding monarchy reform and to identify student protest leaders. Protests in October, when the King resided in the country, had ended in crackdowns and mass arrests.
The protests erupted again on 18 July in a large demonstration organized under the Free Youth umbrella at the Democracy Monument. Three demands were presented to the government: the dissolution of parliament, ending intimidation of the people, and the drafting of a new constitution. The July protests were triggered by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and enforcement of the lockdown Emergency Decree and spread nationwide.
Periodic mass demonstrations followed. On 3 August, two student groups publicly raised demands to reform the monarchy, breaking a long taboo of publicly criticizing the monarchy. A week later, ten demands for monarchy reform were declared. MPs tabled motions to reform the Constitution, and a parliamentary dialogue forum involving proposals of monarchy reform was set up. A 19 September rally saw 20,000–100,000 protesters and has been described as an open challenge to King Vajiralongkorn. A government decision to delay voting on a constitutional amendment in late September fueled nearly unprecedented[23] public republican sentiment. Following mass protests on 14 October, a "severe" state of emergency, which gave more emergency powers to the authorities compared to those given by the Emergency Decree since March, was declared in Bangkok on the 15th citing the alleged blocking of a royal motorcade. Protests continued despite the ban, prompting a crackdown by police on 16 October.
Government responses have included filing criminal charges using the Emergency Decree; arbitrary detention and police intimidation; delaying tactics; the deployment of military information warfare units; media censorship; the mobilization of pro-government and royalist groups; which have accused the protesters of receiving support from foreign governments or NGOs as part of a global conspiracy against Thailand; and the deployment of thousands of police at protests. The government has ordered university chancellors to prevent students from demanding monarchy reform and to identify student protest leaders. Protests in October, when the King resided in the country, had ended in crackdowns and mass arrests.
protests_065
The ongoing 2020 Thai protests are a series of protests against the government of Prayut Chan-o-cha, which have included demands for reform of the Thai monarchy unprecedented in the contemporary era. The protests were initially triggered by the dissolutio
Date: 10/17/2020
The ongoing 2020 Thai protests are a series of protests against the government of Prayut Chan-o-cha, which have included demands for reform of the Thai monarchy unprecedented in the contemporary era. The protests were initially triggered by the dissolution of the Future Forward Party in late February 2020. The party was critical of Prayut and the country's political landscape designed by the current 2017 constitution. This first wave of protests was held exclusively on academic campuses and was brought to a halt by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The protests erupted again on 18 July in a large demonstration organized under the Free Youth umbrella at the Democracy Monument. Three demands were presented to the government: the dissolution of parliament, ending intimidation of the people, and the drafting of a new constitution. The July protests were triggered by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and enforcement of the lockdown Emergency Decree and spread nationwide.
Periodic mass demonstrations followed. On 3 August, two student groups publicly raised demands to reform the monarchy, breaking a long taboo of publicly criticizing the monarchy. A week later, ten demands for monarchy reform were declared. MPs tabled motions to reform the Constitution, and a parliamentary dialogue forum involving proposals of monarchy reform was set up. A 19 September rally saw 20,000–100,000 protesters and has been described as an open challenge to King Vajiralongkorn. A government decision to delay voting on a constitutional amendment in late September fueled nearly unprecedented[23] public republican sentiment. Following mass protests on 14 October, a "severe" state of emergency, which gave more emergency powers to the authorities compared to those given by the Emergency Decree since March, was declared in Bangkok on the 15th citing the alleged blocking of a royal motorcade. Protests continued despite the ban, prompting a crackdown by police on 16 October.
Government responses have included filing criminal charges using the Emergency Decree; arbitrary detention and police intimidation; delaying tactics; the deployment of military information warfare units; media censorship; the mobilization of pro-government and royalist groups; which have accused the protesters of receiving support from foreign governments or NGOs as part of a global conspiracy against Thailand; and the deployment of thousands of police at protests. The government has ordered university chancellors to prevent students from demanding monarchy reform and to identify student protest leaders. Protests in October, when the King resided in the country, had ended in crackdowns and mass arrests.
The protests erupted again on 18 July in a large demonstration organized under the Free Youth umbrella at the Democracy Monument. Three demands were presented to the government: the dissolution of parliament, ending intimidation of the people, and the drafting of a new constitution. The July protests were triggered by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and enforcement of the lockdown Emergency Decree and spread nationwide.
Periodic mass demonstrations followed. On 3 August, two student groups publicly raised demands to reform the monarchy, breaking a long taboo of publicly criticizing the monarchy. A week later, ten demands for monarchy reform were declared. MPs tabled motions to reform the Constitution, and a parliamentary dialogue forum involving proposals of monarchy reform was set up. A 19 September rally saw 20,000–100,000 protesters and has been described as an open challenge to King Vajiralongkorn. A government decision to delay voting on a constitutional amendment in late September fueled nearly unprecedented[23] public republican sentiment. Following mass protests on 14 October, a "severe" state of emergency, which gave more emergency powers to the authorities compared to those given by the Emergency Decree since March, was declared in Bangkok on the 15th citing the alleged blocking of a royal motorcade. Protests continued despite the ban, prompting a crackdown by police on 16 October.
Government responses have included filing criminal charges using the Emergency Decree; arbitrary detention and police intimidation; delaying tactics; the deployment of military information warfare units; media censorship; the mobilization of pro-government and royalist groups; which have accused the protesters of receiving support from foreign governments or NGOs as part of a global conspiracy against Thailand; and the deployment of thousands of police at protests. The government has ordered university chancellors to prevent students from demanding monarchy reform and to identify student protest leaders. Protests in October, when the King resided in the country, had ended in crackdowns and mass arrests.
protests_060
Students and anti-government protesters attend a rally at Democracy Monument on August 16, 2020 in Bangkok, Thailand. Bangkok, Thailand (CNN)It was an act unthinkable in Thailand mere months ago -- an estimated 10,000 anti-government protesters packing
Date: 8/16/2020
Students and anti-government protesters attend a rally at Democracy Monument on August 16, 2020 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Bangkok, Thailand (CNN)It was an act unthinkable in Thailand mere months ago -- an estimated 10,000 anti-government protesters packing Bangkok's Democracy Monument on Sunday, with some calling for reform of the country's monarchy.
The protest was the biggest anti-government rally since the military seized power six years ago, and came after a month of almost daily demonstrations started by students across the country that have since attracted a large cross-section of society.
Anger among disaffected youth has been bubbling since before the March 2019 elections, which gave General-turned-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha another four years in office. But on Sunday, young and old were seen calling for democratic reforms, changes to the military-written constitution, and for the dissolution of parliament.
Bangkok, Thailand (CNN)It was an act unthinkable in Thailand mere months ago -- an estimated 10,000 anti-government protesters packing Bangkok's Democracy Monument on Sunday, with some calling for reform of the country's monarchy.
The protest was the biggest anti-government rally since the military seized power six years ago, and came after a month of almost daily demonstrations started by students across the country that have since attracted a large cross-section of society.
Anger among disaffected youth has been bubbling since before the March 2019 elections, which gave General-turned-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha another four years in office. But on Sunday, young and old were seen calling for democratic reforms, changes to the military-written constitution, and for the dissolution of parliament.
protests_062
Anti-government protesters holding up their phone flashlights during a rally at Democracy Monument in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug 16, 2020. BANGKOK, Thailand - Thousands of Thai protesters chanting “down with dictatorship” and “the country belongs to
Date: 8/19/2020
Anti-government protesters holding up their phone flashlights during a rally at Democracy Monument in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug 16, 2020.
BANGKOK, Thailand - Thousands of Thai protesters chanting “down with dictatorship” and “the country belongs to the people” joined an anti-government demonstration in Bangkok on Sunday (Aug 16) that was one of the biggest since a 2014 coup.
Police estimated the protest drew at least 10,000 people.
BANGKOK, Thailand - Thousands of Thai protesters chanting “down with dictatorship” and “the country belongs to the people” joined an anti-government demonstration in Bangkok on Sunday (Aug 16) that was one of the biggest since a 2014 coup.
Police estimated the protest drew at least 10,000 people.
protests_058
The Democracy Monument at Bangkok, Thailand The Democracy Monument (Thai: อนุสาวรีย์ประชาธิปไตย, ) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. It occupies a traffic circle on the wide east-west Ratchadamnoen Avenue, at the
Date: 12/13/2018
The Democracy Monument at Bangkok, Thailand
The Democracy Monument (Thai: อนุสาวรีย์ประชาธิปไตย, ) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. It occupies a traffic circle on the wide east-west Ratchadamnoen Avenue, at the intersection of Dinso Road. The monument is roughly halfway between Sanam Luang, the former royal cremation ground in front of Wat Phra Kaew, and the temple of the Golden Mount (Phu Kao Thong).
The Democracy Monument (Thai: อนุสาวรีย์ประชาธิปไตย, ) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. It occupies a traffic circle on the wide east-west Ratchadamnoen Avenue, at the intersection of Dinso Road. The monument is roughly halfway between Sanam Luang, the former royal cremation ground in front of Wat Phra Kaew, and the temple of the Golden Mount (Phu Kao Thong).
protests_057
The Democracy Monument (Thai: อนุสาวรีย์ประชาธิปไตย, ) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. It occupies a traffic circle on the wide east-west Ratchadamnoen Avenue, at the intersection of Dinso Road. The monument is roughly
Date: 12/12/2018
The Democracy Monument (Thai: อนุสาวรีย์ประชาธิปไตย, ) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. It occupies a traffic circle on the wide east-west Ratchadamnoen Avenue, at the intersection of Dinso Road. The monument is roughly halfway between Sanam Luang, the former royal cremation ground in front of Wat Phra Kaew, and the temple of the Golden Mount (Phu Kao Thong).
protests_052
(CNN) -- Thailand is bracing for a critical showdown, as anti-government protesters vow to occupy key Bangkok locations for a month beginning Monday, in a massive show of political might intended to shut down the capital and force an end to the political
Date: 1/12/2014
(CNN) -- Thailand is bracing for a critical showdown, as anti-government protesters vow to occupy key Bangkok locations for a month beginning Monday, in a massive show of political might intended to shut down the capital and force an end to the political deadlock gripping the nation.
1. Why are the protesters demonstrating?
Since the government's botched attempt to pass a controversial amnesty bill in November, protesters have been taking to the streets and occupying government buildings, calling for an end to the elected government of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. They accuse Yingluck of being a puppet of her brother, the ousted prime minister and telecommunications billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra, who was overthrown in a 2006 military coup.
In response to the crisis, Yingluck dissolved parliament on December 9, calling new elections to be held on February 2. But the move failed to mollify protesters, with the opposition Democrat Party, closely aligned with the protest movement, announcing a boycott of the vote.
Led by Suthep Thaugsuban, a former deputy prime minister and Democrat MP who resigned his parliamentary seat in November to spearhead the protests, the demonstrators are demanding that no elections be held until major political reforms are implemented.
1. Why are the protesters demonstrating?
Since the government's botched attempt to pass a controversial amnesty bill in November, protesters have been taking to the streets and occupying government buildings, calling for an end to the elected government of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. They accuse Yingluck of being a puppet of her brother, the ousted prime minister and telecommunications billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra, who was overthrown in a 2006 military coup.
In response to the crisis, Yingluck dissolved parliament on December 9, calling new elections to be held on February 2. But the move failed to mollify protesters, with the opposition Democrat Party, closely aligned with the protest movement, announcing a boycott of the vote.
Led by Suthep Thaugsuban, a former deputy prime minister and Democrat MP who resigned his parliamentary seat in November to spearhead the protests, the demonstrators are demanding that no elections be held until major political reforms are implemented.
protests_053
(CNN) -- Thailand is bracing for a critical showdown, as anti-government protesters vow to occupy key Bangkok locations for a month beginning Monday, in a massive show of political might intended to shut down the capital and force an end to the political
Date: 1/12/2014
(CNN) -- Thailand is bracing for a critical showdown, as anti-government protesters vow to occupy key Bangkok locations for a month beginning Monday, in a massive show of political might intended to shut down the capital and force an end to the political deadlock gripping the nation.
1. Why are the protesters demonstrating?
Since the government's botched attempt to pass a controversial amnesty bill in November, protesters have been taking to the streets and occupying government buildings, calling for an end to the elected government of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. They accuse Yingluck of being a puppet of her brother, the ousted prime minister and telecommunications billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra, who was overthrown in a 2006 military coup.
In response to the crisis, Yingluck dissolved parliament on December 9, calling new elections to be held on February 2. But the move failed to mollify protesters, with the opposition Democrat Party, closely aligned with the protest movement, announcing a boycott of the vote.
Led by Suthep Thaugsuban, a former deputy prime minister and Democrat MP who resigned his parliamentary seat in November to spearhead the protests, the demonstrators are demanding that no elections be held until major political reforms are implemented.
1. Why are the protesters demonstrating?
Since the government's botched attempt to pass a controversial amnesty bill in November, protesters have been taking to the streets and occupying government buildings, calling for an end to the elected government of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. They accuse Yingluck of being a puppet of her brother, the ousted prime minister and telecommunications billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra, who was overthrown in a 2006 military coup.
In response to the crisis, Yingluck dissolved parliament on December 9, calling new elections to be held on February 2. But the move failed to mollify protesters, with the opposition Democrat Party, closely aligned with the protest movement, announcing a boycott of the vote.
Led by Suthep Thaugsuban, a former deputy prime minister and Democrat MP who resigned his parliamentary seat in November to spearhead the protests, the demonstrators are demanding that no elections be held until major political reforms are implemented.
protests_042
The City Hall building burns after it was set on fire by Red Shirt protesters in Ubon Ratchathani province, north-east of Bangkok, May 19, 2010. Rioting and fires swept Bangkok on Wednesday after troops stormed a protest encampment, forcing protest leader
Date: 5/20/2010
The City Hall building burns after it was set on fire by Red Shirt protesters in Ubon Ratchathani province, north-east of Bangkok, May 19, 2010. Rioting and fires swept Bangkok on Wednesday after troops stormed a protest encampment, forcing protest leaders to surrender, but sparking clashes in Bangkok and triggering other unrest in northern Thailand. (REUTERS/Stringer)
protests_002
Red Shirt protesters set tires ablaze in front of a stand off with Thai military, Sunday, May 16, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)
Date: 5/19/2010
Red Shirt protesters set tires ablaze in front of a stand off with Thai military, Sunday, May 16, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)
protests_007
Renegade Thai major-general Khattiya Sawasdipol slumps on the ground moments after being shot in the head while being interviewed by Thai and foreign reporters in Bangkok on May 13, 2010. (REUTERS/Cyrille Andres)
Date: 5/19/2010
Renegade Thai major-general Khattiya Sawasdipol slumps on the ground moments after being shot in the head while being interviewed by Thai and foreign reporters in Bangkok on May 13, 2010. (REUTERS/Cyrille Andres)
protests_049
Earlier today, soldiers from the Thai Army broke down barricades and entered the fortified camp occupied by anti-government Red Shirt protesters for the past several weeks in downtown Bangkok. Several clashes took place, and Red Shirt leaders announced to
Date: 5/23/2010
Earlier today, soldiers from the Thai Army broke down barricades and entered the fortified camp occupied by anti-government Red Shirt protesters for the past several weeks in downtown Bangkok. Several clashes took place, and Red Shirt leaders announced to their followers that they were surrendering to police as the soldiers approached. Many protesters dispersed, but some continued to battle with grenades, guns, slingshots and fire, setting as many as 20 locations ablaze in central Bangkok. At this stage, it is unclear how many have been killed or injured, but at least five are known to have died, with dozens more injured. Thai authorities have imposed a curfew as they battle fires, process detainees and clear the rest of the Red Shirt encampment.
protests_050
Earlier today, soldiers from the Thai Army broke down barricades and entered the fortified camp occupied by anti-government Red Shirt protesters for the past several weeks in downtown Bangkok. Several clashes took place, and Red Shirt leaders announced to
Date: 5/23/2010
Earlier today, soldiers from the Thai Army broke down barricades and entered the fortified camp occupied by anti-government Red Shirt protesters for the past several weeks in downtown Bangkok. Several clashes took place, and Red Shirt leaders announced to their followers that they were surrendering to police as the soldiers approached. Many protesters dispersed, but some continued to battle with grenades, guns, slingshots and fire, setting as many as 20 locations ablaze in central Bangkok. At this stage, it is unclear how many have been killed or injured, but at least five are known to have died, with dozens more injured. Thai authorities have imposed a curfew as they battle fires, process detainees and clear the rest of the Red Shirt encampment.
protests_044
A statue and a torn Thai national flag remain in front of Bangkok's Central World shopping mall, which was gutted by fire after army soldiers advanced towards an encampment of thousands of Red Shirt protesters, May 19, 2010. (REUTERS/Adrees Latif)
Date: 5/20/2010
A statue and a torn Thai national flag remain in front of Bangkok's Central World shopping mall, which was gutted by fire after army soldiers advanced towards an encampment of thousands of Red Shirt protesters, May 19, 2010. (REUTERS/Adrees Latif)
protests_035
Smoke billows from fires in a commercial area of Bangkok where Red Shirt demonstrators had their camp on May 19, 2010. Thai fire authorities said that arsonists have set 20 locations ablaze in Bangkok, including a massive shopping mall and bank branches.
Date: 5/20/2010
Smoke billows from fires in a commercial area of Bangkok where Red Shirt demonstrators had their camp on May 19, 2010. Thai fire authorities said that arsonists have set 20 locations ablaze in Bangkok, including a massive shopping mall and bank branches. (MANAN VATSYAYANA/AFP/Getty Images)
protests_043
A Red Shirt protester throws a rock at a burning shopping mall on Wednesday, May 19, 2010. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
Date: 5/20/2010
A Red Shirt protester throws a rock at a burning shopping mall on Wednesday, May 19, 2010. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
protests_048
Smoke rises from fires burning in downtown Bangkok, Thailand, following the surrender of anti-government leaders and capture of their encampment, Wednesday May 19, 2010. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
Date: 5/20/2010
Smoke rises from fires burning in downtown Bangkok, Thailand, following the surrender of anti-government leaders and capture of their encampment, Wednesday May 19, 2010. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
protests_014
Red Shirt protesters create a burning barricade on Rama IV road to stop army soldiers from advancing in Bangkok May 15, 2010. (REUTERS/Adrees Latif)
Date: 5/19/2010
Red Shirt protesters create a burning barricade on Rama IV road to stop army soldiers from advancing in Bangkok May 15, 2010. (REUTERS/Adrees Latif)
protests_001
Dark smoke rises above Bangkok, Thailand as Red Shirt protesters burn tires at a main road downtown on Sunday, May 16, 2010. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
Date: 5/19/2010
Dark smoke rises above Bangkok, Thailand as Red Shirt protesters burn tires at a main road downtown on Sunday, May 16, 2010. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
protests_025
Thick black smoke billows through the air behind the main Chulalongkorn hospital near the Red Shirt encampment on Wednesday May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wong Maye-E )
Date: 5/20/2010
Thick black smoke billows through the air behind the main Chulalongkorn hospital near the Red Shirt encampment on Wednesday May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wong Maye-E )
protests_027
Firemen douse a fire at a barricade of Lumpini Park put up by anti-government protesters in downtown Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 19, 2010. (AP Photo/ Manish Swarup)
Date: 5/20/2010
Firemen douse a fire at a barricade of Lumpini Park put up by anti-government protesters in downtown Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 19, 2010. (AP Photo/ Manish Swarup)
protests_029
An armored personnel carrier moves toward a burning anti-government barricade during a military crackdown Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
Date: 5/20/2010
An armored personnel carrier moves toward a burning anti-government barricade during a military crackdown Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
protests_034
An anti-government protester piles tires on a fire at a shopping center Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)
Date: 5/20/2010
An anti-government protester piles tires on a fire at a shopping center Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)
protests_040
Thai firefighters work to control a fire on Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok Thailand. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
Date: 5/20/2010
Thai firefighters work to control a fire on Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok Thailand. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
protests_003
A "Red Shirt" anti-government protester kneels down as he runs away from gunfire as the violence in central Bangkok continues on May 16, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Athit Perawongmetha/Getty Images)
Date: 5/19/2010
A "Red Shirt" anti-government protester kneels down as he runs away from gunfire as the violence in central Bangkok continues on May 16, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Athit Perawongmetha/Getty Images)
protests_051
Earlier today, soldiers from the Thai Army broke down barricades and entered the fortified camp occupied by anti-government Red Shirt protesters for the past several weeks in downtown Bangkok. Several clashes took place, and Red Shirt leaders announced to
Date: 5/23/2010
Earlier today, soldiers from the Thai Army broke down barricades and entered the fortified camp occupied by anti-government Red Shirt protesters for the past several weeks in downtown Bangkok. Several clashes took place, and Red Shirt leaders announced to their followers that they were surrendering to police as the soldiers approached. Many protesters dispersed, but some continued to battle with grenades, guns, slingshots and fire, setting as many as 20 locations ablaze in central Bangkok. At this stage, it is unclear how many have been killed or injured, but at least five are known to have died, with dozens more injured. Thai authorities have imposed a curfew as they battle fires, process detainees and clear the rest of the Red Shirt encampment.
protests_018
An intoxicated Red Shirt supporter lies against a barricade made out of tires during clashes at Rama IV Street in Bangkok May 16, 2010. (REUTERS/Jerry Lampen)
Date: 5/19/2010
An intoxicated Red Shirt supporter lies against a barricade made out of tires during clashes at Rama IV Street in Bangkok May 16, 2010. (REUTERS/Jerry Lampen)
protests_019
A Red Shirt supporter walks toward a barricade of tires which were set ablaze between army soldiers and protesters near Bangkok's Victory Monument May 16, 2010. (REUTERS/Adrees Latif)
Date: 5/19/2010
A Red Shirt supporter walks toward a barricade of tires which were set ablaze between army soldiers and protesters near Bangkok's Victory Monument May 16, 2010. (REUTERS/Adrees Latif)
protests_004
Thai soldiers stand off with a crowd of Red Shirt protesters, Friday, May 14, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)
Date: 5/19/2010
Thai soldiers stand off with a crowd of Red Shirt protesters, Friday, May 14, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)
protests_005
Red Shirt protesters fire home-made rockets toward Thai soldiers on Sunday May 16, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)
Date: 5/19/2010
Red Shirt protesters fire home-made rockets toward Thai soldiers on Sunday May 16, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)
protests_036
The body of a protester who was killed during an operation to evict Red Shirt protesters from their encampment lies in the street in front of a burning barricade in Bangkok May 19, 2010. (REUTERS/Damir Sagolj)
Date: 5/20/2010
The body of a protester who was killed during an operation to evict Red Shirt protesters from their encampment lies in the street in front of a burning barricade in Bangkok May 19, 2010. (REUTERS/Damir Sagolj)
protests_010
A demonstrator, wounded during clashes with security forces, is carried to an ambulance in Bangkok on May 15, 2010. (PEDRO UGARTE/AFP/Getty Images)
Date: 5/19/2010
A demonstrator, wounded during clashes with security forces, is carried to an ambulance in Bangkok on May 15, 2010. (PEDRO UGARTE/AFP/Getty Images)
protests_011
A burning tire rolls toward the line of Thai soldiers moving to disperse Red Shirt protesters on Friday, May 14, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
Date: 5/19/2010
A burning tire rolls toward the line of Thai soldiers moving to disperse Red Shirt protesters on Friday, May 14, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
protests_015
Red Shirt protesters add to a burning barricade in the streets on May 14, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Andy Nelson /Getty Images)
Date: 5/19/2010
Red Shirt protesters add to a burning barricade in the streets on May 14, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Andy Nelson /Getty Images)
protests_012
A Red Shirt demonstrator taunts Thai soldiers in downtown Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, May 14, 2010. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
Date: 5/19/2010
A Red Shirt demonstrator taunts Thai soldiers in downtown Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, May 14, 2010. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
protests_013
Red Shirt anti-government protesters crouch on the ground after several gunshots rang out and stuck two men, as hundreds of protesters gathered under the highway bridge on Rama 4, during clashes between demonstrators and security forces in Bangkok on May
Date: 5/19/2010
Red Shirt anti-government protesters crouch on the ground after several gunshots rang out and stuck two men, as hundreds of protesters gathered under the highway bridge on Rama 4, during clashes between demonstrators and security forces in Bangkok on May 16, 2010. (NICOLAS ASFOURI/AFP/Getty Images)
protests_031
An armored vehicle breaks through a Red Shirt barricade on Wednesday May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
Date: 5/20/2010
An armored vehicle breaks through a Red Shirt barricade on Wednesday May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
protests_016
Red Shirt demonstrators watch Thai soldiers from behind their makeshift barricades on Friday, May 14, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/David Longstreath)
Date: 5/19/2010
Red Shirt demonstrators watch Thai soldiers from behind their makeshift barricades on Friday, May 14, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/David Longstreath)
protests_017
Thai soldiers in riot gear rest under a bridge outside the fortified camp of the Red Shirt movement in downtown Bangkok on May 13, 2010. (NICOLAS ASFOURI/AFP/Getty Images)
Date: 5/19/2010
Thai soldiers in riot gear rest under a bridge outside the fortified camp of the Red Shirt movement in downtown Bangkok on May 13, 2010. (NICOLAS ASFOURI/AFP/Getty Images)
protests_009
A demonstrator uses a slingshot against security forces during clashes in Bangkok on May 15, 2010. (PEDRO UGARTE/AFP/Getty Images)
Date: 5/19/2010
A demonstrator uses a slingshot against security forces during clashes in Bangkok on May 15, 2010. (PEDRO UGARTE/AFP/Getty Images)
protests_006
Renegade Thai major-general Khattiya Sawasdipol, only moments before being shot while being interviewed by Thai and foreign reporters in Bangkok on May 13, 2010. Khattiya, better known as Seh Daeng, a rogue soldier and de facto military chief of Thailand'
Date: 5/19/2010
Renegade Thai major-general Khattiya Sawasdipol, only moments before being shot while being interviewed by Thai and foreign reporters in Bangkok on May 13, 2010. Khattiya, better known as Seh Daeng, a rogue soldier and de facto military chief of Thailand's red shirt protest movement later died from the wound. (REUTERS/Cyrille Andres)
protests_020
Thai Buddhist monks gather Sunday, May 16, 2010, at Victory Monument in Bangkok, Thailand to chant prayers for peace. (AP Photo/David Longstreath)
Date: 5/19/2010
Thai Buddhist monks gather Sunday, May 16, 2010, at Victory Monument in Bangkok, Thailand to chant prayers for peace. (AP Photo/David Longstreath)
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A Buddhist monk prays for peace on the anti-government red shirt protesters main rally stage on May 16, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Getty Images)
Date: 5/19/2010
A Buddhist monk prays for peace on the anti-government red shirt protesters main rally stage on May 16, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Getty Images)
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Thai soldiers storm through the barricade of anti-government protesters on Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. Downtown Bangkok became a raging battleground Wednesday as the army stormed a barricaded protest camp and toppled the Red Shirt leade
Date: 5/20/2010
Thai soldiers storm through the barricade of anti-government protesters on Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. Downtown Bangkok became a raging battleground Wednesday as the army stormed a barricaded protest camp and toppled the Red Shirt leadership, enraging demonstrators who fired grenades and set fires that cloaked the skyline in a black haze. (AP Photo/Wong Maye-E )
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Thai Security forces take cover behind an armored personnel carrier as they advance toward protesters on May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Athit Perawongmetha/Getty Images)
Date: 5/20/2010
Thai Security forces take cover behind an armored personnel carrier as they advance toward protesters on May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Athit Perawongmetha/Getty Images)
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Thai soldiers make their way toward an anti-government barricade during a military crackdown Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
Date: 5/20/2010
Thai soldiers make their way toward an anti-government barricade during a military crackdown Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
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Thai soldiers and journalists run towards cover near an anti-government barricade on Wednesday May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
Date: 5/20/2010
Thai soldiers and journalists run towards cover near an anti-government barricade on Wednesday May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)
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A group of hardline Thai Red Shirt anti-government protesters take cover behind a wall as they fight with security forces in downtown Bangkok on May 19, 2010. (BAY ISMOYO/AFP/Getty Images)
Date: 5/20/2010
A group of hardline Thai Red Shirt anti-government protesters take cover behind a wall as they fight with security forces in downtown Bangkok on May 19, 2010. (BAY ISMOYO/AFP/Getty Images)
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Red Shirt anti-government protest leaders announce their surrender to a gathered crowd from the stage inside the protesters' camp in downtown Bangkok on May 19, 2010. Thai protest leaders surrendered and told thousands of Red Shirt supporters to end their
Date: 5/20/2010
Red Shirt anti-government protest leaders announce their surrender to a gathered crowd from the stage inside the protesters' camp in downtown Bangkok on May 19, 2010. Thai protest leaders surrendered and told thousands of Red Shirt supporters to end their weeks-long rally after an army assault on their fortified encampment. (PORNCHAI KITTIWONGSAKUL/AFP/Getty Images)
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Thai security forces shoot towards Red Shirt protesters in their encampment on May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Athit Perawongmetha/Getty Images)
Date: 5/20/2010
Thai security forces shoot towards Red Shirt protesters in their encampment on May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Athit Perawongmetha/Getty Images)
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Journalists lie down and take cover during a gun battle between Thai army and anti-government protesters at Lumpini park in downtown Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 19, 2010. (AP Photo/ Manish Swarup)
Date: 5/20/2010
Journalists lie down and take cover during a gun battle between Thai army and anti-government protesters at Lumpini park in downtown Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 19, 2010. (AP Photo/ Manish Swarup)
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Canadian journalist Chandler Vandergrift (left) lies wounded near injured Thai soldiers after they were hit by a grenade on May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Athit Perawongmetha/Getty Images)
Date: 5/20/2010
Canadian journalist Chandler Vandergrift (left) lies wounded near injured Thai soldiers after they were hit by a grenade on May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Athit Perawongmetha/Getty Images)
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Thai soldiers march past the body of a Red Shirt protester during the early morning attack on the red shirt camp May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
Date: 5/20/2010
Thai soldiers march past the body of a Red Shirt protester during the early morning attack on the red shirt camp May 19, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
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A person takes a photograph of deserted Lumpini Park following a crackdown on anti-government protesters, in downtown Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 19, 2010. (AP Photo/ Manish Swarup)
Date: 5/20/2010
A person takes a photograph of deserted Lumpini Park following a crackdown on anti-government protesters, in downtown Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 19, 2010. (AP Photo/ Manish Swarup)
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Red Shirt supporters rescue a fellow protester who was shot after army soldiers penetrated a barricade where thousands of protesters were encamped in Bangkok May 19, 2010. At least two other protesters lie injured on the sidewalk in the background. (REUTE
Date: 5/20/2010
Red Shirt supporters rescue a fellow protester who was shot after army soldiers penetrated a barricade where thousands of protesters were encamped in Bangkok May 19, 2010. At least two other protesters lie injured on the sidewalk in the background. (REUTERS/Adrees Latif)
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A Red Shirt protester who had been shot in the head is carried into a hospital on Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)
Date: 5/20/2010
A Red Shirt protester who had been shot in the head is carried into a hospital on Wednesday, May 19, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)
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A Thai man believed to be a Red Shirt demonstrator lies dead in the street after being shot by an unidentified sniper Saturday, May 15, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo)
Date: 5/20/2010
A Thai man believed to be a Red Shirt demonstrator lies dead in the street after being shot by an unidentified sniper Saturday, May 15, 2010, in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo)
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A broken window in a burned out shop is seen as a Red Shirt protester runs by as violence continues on May 16, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
Date: 5/20/2010
A broken window in a burned out shop is seen as a Red Shirt protester runs by as violence continues on May 16, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
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Anti-government Red Shirt protesters carry the body of their dead comrade who was believed to have been shot by a sniper during clashes with Thai soldiers Saturday, May 15, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
Date: 5/20/2010
Anti-government Red Shirt protesters carry the body of their dead comrade who was believed to have been shot by a sniper during clashes with Thai soldiers Saturday, May 15, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
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(CNN) -- Thailand is bracing for a critical showdown, as anti-government protesters vow to occupy key Bangkok locations for a month beginning Monday, in a massive show of political might intended to shut down the capital and force an end to the political
Date: 1/12/2014
(CNN) -- Thailand is bracing for a critical showdown, as anti-government protesters vow to occupy key Bangkok locations for a month beginning Monday, in a massive show of political might intended to shut down the capital and force an end to the political deadlock gripping the nation.
1. Why are the protesters demonstrating?
Since the government's botched attempt to pass a controversial amnesty bill in November, protesters have been taking to the streets and occupying government buildings, calling for an end to the elected government of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. They accuse Yingluck of being a puppet of her brother, the ousted prime minister and telecommunications billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra, who was overthrown in a 2006 military coup.
In response to the crisis, Yingluck dissolved parliament on December 9, calling new elections to be held on February 2. But the move failed to mollify protesters, with the opposition Democrat Party, closely aligned with the protest movement, announcing a boycott of the vote.
Led by Suthep Thaugsuban, a former deputy prime minister and Democrat MP who resigned his parliamentary seat in November to spearhead the protests, the demonstrators are demanding that no elections be held until major political reforms are implemented.
1. Why are the protesters demonstrating?
Since the government's botched attempt to pass a controversial amnesty bill in November, protesters have been taking to the streets and occupying government buildings, calling for an end to the elected government of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. They accuse Yingluck of being a puppet of her brother, the ousted prime minister and telecommunications billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra, who was overthrown in a 2006 military coup.
In response to the crisis, Yingluck dissolved parliament on December 9, calling new elections to be held on February 2. But the move failed to mollify protesters, with the opposition Democrat Party, closely aligned with the protest movement, announcing a boycott of the vote.
Led by Suthep Thaugsuban, a former deputy prime minister and Democrat MP who resigned his parliamentary seat in November to spearhead the protests, the demonstrators are demanding that no elections be held until major political reforms are implemented.
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(CNN) -- Thailand is bracing for a critical showdown, as anti-government protesters vow to occupy key Bangkok locations for a month beginning Monday, in a massive show of political might intended to shut down the capital and force an end to the political
Date: 10/8/2005
(CNN) -- Thailand is bracing for a critical showdown, as anti-government protesters vow to occupy key Bangkok locations for a month beginning Monday, in a massive show of political might intended to shut down the capital and force an end to the political
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Earlier today, soldiers from the Thai Army broke down barricades and entered the fortified camp occupied by anti-government Red Shirt protesters for the past several weeks in downtown Bangkok. Several clashes took place, and Red Shirt leaders announced to
Date: 12/12/2018
Earlier today, soldiers from the Thai Army broke down barricades and entered the fortified camp occupied by anti-government Red Shirt protesters for the past several weeks in downtown Bangkok. Several clashes took place, and Red Shirt leaders announced to their followers that they were surrendering to police as the soldiers approached. Many protesters dispersed, but some continued to battle with grenades, guns, slingshots and fire, setting as many as 20 locations ablaze in central Bangkok. At this stage, it is unclear how many have been killed or injured, but at least five are known to have died, with dozens more injured. Thai authorities have imposed a curfew as they battle fires, process detainees and clear the rest of the Red Shirt encampment.
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The Democracy Monument in Bangkok, Thailand The Democracy Monument (Thai: อนุสาวรีย์ประชาธิปไตย, ) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. It occupies a traffic circle on the wide east-west Ratchadamnoen Avenue, at the
Date: 11/24/2019
The Democracy Monument in Bangkok, Thailand
The Democracy Monument (Thai: อนุสาวรีย์ประชาธิปไตย, ) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. It occupies a traffic circle on the wide east-west Ratchadamnoen Avenue, at the intersection of Dinso Road. The monument is roughly halfway between Sanam Luang, the former royal cremation ground in front of Wat Phra Kaew, and the temple of the Golden Mount (Phu Kao Thong).
The Democracy Monument (Thai: อนุสาวรีย์ประชาธิปไตย, ) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. It occupies a traffic circle on the wide east-west Ratchadamnoen Avenue, at the intersection of Dinso Road. The monument is roughly halfway between Sanam Luang, the former royal cremation ground in front of Wat Phra Kaew, and the temple of the Golden Mount (Phu Kao Thong).
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Students and anti-government protesters attend a rally at Democracy Monument on August 16, 2020 in Bangkok, Thailand. Bangkok, Thailand (CNN)It was an act unthinkable in Thailand mere months ago -- an estimated 10,000 anti-government protesters pac
Date: 8/17/2020
Students and anti-government protesters attend a rally at Democracy Monument on August 16, 2020 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Bangkok, Thailand (CNN)It was an act unthinkable in Thailand mere months ago -- an estimated 10,000 anti-government protesters packing Bangkok's Democracy Monument on Sunday, with some calling for reform of the country's monarchy.
The protest was the biggest anti-government rally since the military seized power six years ago, and came after a month of almost daily demonstrations started by students across the country that have since attracted a large cross-section of society.
Anger among disaffected youth has been bubbling since before the March 2019 elections, which gave General-turned-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha another four years in office. But on Sunday, young and old were seen calling for democratic reforms, changes to the military-written constitution, and for the dissolution of parliament.
Bangkok, Thailand (CNN)It was an act unthinkable in Thailand mere months ago -- an estimated 10,000 anti-government protesters packing Bangkok's Democracy Monument on Sunday, with some calling for reform of the country's monarchy.
The protest was the biggest anti-government rally since the military seized power six years ago, and came after a month of almost daily demonstrations started by students across the country that have since attracted a large cross-section of society.
Anger among disaffected youth has been bubbling since before the March 2019 elections, which gave General-turned-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha another four years in office. But on Sunday, young and old were seen calling for democratic reforms, changes to the military-written constitution, and for the dissolution of parliament.
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Anti-government protesters take part in a rally by the Democracy Monument in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug 16, 2020. BANGKOK, Thailand - Thousands of Thai protesters chanting “down with dictatorship” and “the country belongs to the people” joined an an
Date: 8/19/2020
Anti-government protesters take part in a rally by the Democracy Monument in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug 16, 2020.
BANGKOK, Thailand - Thousands of Thai protesters chanting “down with dictatorship” and “the country belongs to the people” joined an anti-government demonstration in Bangkok on Sunday (Aug 16) that was one of the biggest since a 2014 coup.
Police estimated the protest drew at least 10,000 people.
BANGKOK, Thailand - Thousands of Thai protesters chanting “down with dictatorship” and “the country belongs to the people” joined an anti-government demonstration in Bangkok on Sunday (Aug 16) that was one of the biggest since a 2014 coup.
Police estimated the protest drew at least 10,000 people.
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The ongoing 2020 Thai protests are a series of protests against the government of Prayut Chan-o-cha, which have included demands for reform of the Thai monarchy unprecedented in the contemporary era. The protests were initially triggered by the dissolutio
Date: 10/17/2020
The ongoing 2020 Thai protests are a series of protests against the government of Prayut Chan-o-cha, which have included demands for reform of the Thai monarchy unprecedented in the contemporary era. The protests were initially triggered by the dissolution of the Future Forward Party in late February 2020. The party was critical of Prayut and the country's political landscape designed by the current 2017 constitution. This first wave of protests was held exclusively on academic campuses and was brought to a halt by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The protests erupted again on 18 July in a large demonstration organized under the Free Youth umbrella at the Democracy Monument. Three demands were presented to the government: the dissolution of parliament, ending intimidation of the people, and the drafting of a new constitution. The July protests were triggered by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and enforcement of the lockdown Emergency Decree and spread nationwide.
Periodic mass demonstrations followed. On 3 August, two student groups publicly raised demands to reform the monarchy, breaking a long taboo of publicly criticizing the monarchy. A week later, ten demands for monarchy reform were declared. MPs tabled motions to reform the Constitution, and a parliamentary dialogue forum involving proposals of monarchy reform was set up. A 19 September rally saw 20,000–100,000 protesters and has been described as an open challenge to King Vajiralongkorn. A government decision to delay voting on a constitutional amendment in late September fueled nearly unprecedented[23] public republican sentiment. Following mass protests on 14 October, a "severe" state of emergency, which gave more emergency powers to the authorities compared to those given by the Emergency Decree since March, was declared in Bangkok on the 15th citing the alleged blocking of a royal motorcade. Protests continued despite the ban, prompting a crackdown by police on 16 October.
Government responses have included filing criminal charges using the Emergency Decree; arbitrary detention and police intimidation; delaying tactics; the deployment of military information warfare units; media censorship; the mobilization of pro-government and royalist groups; which have accused the protesters of receiving support from foreign governments or NGOs as part of a global conspiracy against Thailand; and the deployment of thousands of police at protests. The government has ordered university chancellors to prevent students from demanding monarchy reform and to identify student protest leaders. Protests in October, when the King resided in the country, had ended in crackdowns and mass arrests.
The protests erupted again on 18 July in a large demonstration organized under the Free Youth umbrella at the Democracy Monument. Three demands were presented to the government: the dissolution of parliament, ending intimidation of the people, and the drafting of a new constitution. The July protests were triggered by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and enforcement of the lockdown Emergency Decree and spread nationwide.
Periodic mass demonstrations followed. On 3 August, two student groups publicly raised demands to reform the monarchy, breaking a long taboo of publicly criticizing the monarchy. A week later, ten demands for monarchy reform were declared. MPs tabled motions to reform the Constitution, and a parliamentary dialogue forum involving proposals of monarchy reform was set up. A 19 September rally saw 20,000–100,000 protesters and has been described as an open challenge to King Vajiralongkorn. A government decision to delay voting on a constitutional amendment in late September fueled nearly unprecedented[23] public republican sentiment. Following mass protests on 14 October, a "severe" state of emergency, which gave more emergency powers to the authorities compared to those given by the Emergency Decree since March, was declared in Bangkok on the 15th citing the alleged blocking of a royal motorcade. Protests continued despite the ban, prompting a crackdown by police on 16 October.
Government responses have included filing criminal charges using the Emergency Decree; arbitrary detention and police intimidation; delaying tactics; the deployment of military information warfare units; media censorship; the mobilization of pro-government and royalist groups; which have accused the protesters of receiving support from foreign governments or NGOs as part of a global conspiracy against Thailand; and the deployment of thousands of police at protests. The government has ordered university chancellors to prevent students from demanding monarchy reform and to identify student protest leaders. Protests in October, when the King resided in the country, had ended in crackdowns and mass arrests.
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The ongoing 2020 Thai protests are a series of protests against the government of Prayut Chan-o-cha, which have included demands for reform of the Thai monarchy unprecedented in the contemporary era. The protests were initially triggered by the dissolutio
Date: 10/17/2020
The ongoing 2020 Thai protests are a series of protests against the government of Prayut Chan-o-cha, which have included demands for reform of the Thai monarchy unprecedented in the contemporary era. The protests were initially triggered by the dissolution of the Future Forward Party in late February 2020. The party was critical of Prayut and the country's political landscape designed by the current 2017 constitution. This first wave of protests was held exclusively on academic campuses and was brought to a halt by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The protests erupted again on 18 July in a large demonstration organized under the Free Youth umbrella at the Democracy Monument. Three demands were presented to the government: the dissolution of parliament, ending intimidation of the people, and the drafting of a new constitution. The July protests were triggered by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and enforcement of the lockdown Emergency Decree and spread nationwide.
Periodic mass demonstrations followed. On 3 August, two student groups publicly raised demands to reform the monarchy, breaking a long taboo of publicly criticizing the monarchy. A week later, ten demands for monarchy reform were declared. MPs tabled motions to reform the Constitution, and a parliamentary dialogue forum involving proposals of monarchy reform was set up. A 19 September rally saw 20,000–100,000 protesters and has been described as an open challenge to King Vajiralongkorn. A government decision to delay voting on a constitutional amendment in late September fueled nearly unprecedented[23] public republican sentiment. Following mass protests on 14 October, a "severe" state of emergency, which gave more emergency powers to the authorities compared to those given by the Emergency Decree since March, was declared in Bangkok on the 15th citing the alleged blocking of a royal motorcade. Protests continued despite the ban, prompting a crackdown by police on 16 October.
Government responses have included filing criminal charges using the Emergency Decree; arbitrary detention and police intimidation; delaying tactics; the deployment of military information warfare units; media censorship; the mobilization of pro-government and royalist groups; which have accused the protesters of receiving support from foreign governments or NGOs as part of a global conspiracy against Thailand; and the deployment of thousands of police at protests. The government has ordered university chancellors to prevent students from demanding monarchy reform and to identify student protest leaders. Protests in October, when the King resided in the country, had ended in crackdowns and mass arrests.
The protests erupted again on 18 July in a large demonstration organized under the Free Youth umbrella at the Democracy Monument. Three demands were presented to the government: the dissolution of parliament, ending intimidation of the people, and the drafting of a new constitution. The July protests were triggered by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and enforcement of the lockdown Emergency Decree and spread nationwide.
Periodic mass demonstrations followed. On 3 August, two student groups publicly raised demands to reform the monarchy, breaking a long taboo of publicly criticizing the monarchy. A week later, ten demands for monarchy reform were declared. MPs tabled motions to reform the Constitution, and a parliamentary dialogue forum involving proposals of monarchy reform was set up. A 19 September rally saw 20,000–100,000 protesters and has been described as an open challenge to King Vajiralongkorn. A government decision to delay voting on a constitutional amendment in late September fueled nearly unprecedented[23] public republican sentiment. Following mass protests on 14 October, a "severe" state of emergency, which gave more emergency powers to the authorities compared to those given by the Emergency Decree since March, was declared in Bangkok on the 15th citing the alleged blocking of a royal motorcade. Protests continued despite the ban, prompting a crackdown by police on 16 October.
Government responses have included filing criminal charges using the Emergency Decree; arbitrary detention and police intimidation; delaying tactics; the deployment of military information warfare units; media censorship; the mobilization of pro-government and royalist groups; which have accused the protesters of receiving support from foreign governments or NGOs as part of a global conspiracy against Thailand; and the deployment of thousands of police at protests. The government has ordered university chancellors to prevent students from demanding monarchy reform and to identify student protest leaders. Protests in October, when the King resided in the country, had ended in crackdowns and mass arrests.
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Moment of Democracy monument at Dusk in Bangkok, Thailand.
Date: 4/15/2021
Moment of Democracy monument at Dusk in Bangkok, Thailand.
