Thailand’s Political Landscape: A Persistent Struggle Between Democracy and the Establishment

Thailand’s political environment remains a complex and enduring paradox.

On the surface, the country functions as a constitutional monarchy with routine, competitive elections, boasting high voter participation and an engaged younger generation. However, experts note that real power often lies with an unelected coalition of the military, judiciary, and the royal institution.

Since the abolition of absolute monarchy in 1932, Thailand has endured over a dozen military coups. This ongoing conflict between progressive democratic forces and the entrenched establishment has perpetuated a cycle of political turmoil for decades.

Few understand this dynamic better than the Shinawatra family, central figures in Thailand’s political saga over the last two decades. Most recently, Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to have her political future determined by the Constitutional Court.

Here is a concise overview of the situation.

Observers highlight that rulings from the Constitutional Court frequently align with the interests of Thailand’s established power structure. This tendency reflects the court’s composition and ideological stance.

The court is widely regarded by conservative factions as a guardian of the nation’s key institutions, acting to shield them from what is perceived as the excesses of democratic politics.