Government of 2014

JHUMUNC 2017

1 Government of Thailand 2014

Topic A: Escalating Violence and Dividing Factions

Topic B: The Political State of Thailand

As we assert our place as the new Committee Overview leaders of Thailand, this cabinet must also firmly establish the guidelines for this new In May of 2014, our military forces government. We will discuss and revise the overthrew the government in a coup that led interim Constitution implemented after the to a suspension of the Constitution, martial coup in order to ultimately bring forth the law, a curfew, and nationwide censorship. start of a new political age for Thailand. The military has arrested the former Prime Minister, accused her of bribery and corruption, fired every member of her Parliamentary Procedure cabinet, and abolished the House of Representatives. In the months following This committee will abide by the this abrupt shift in power, I, Prayut Chan-o- rules of standard parliamentary procedure. cha, the new Prime Minister and former Un-moderated caucuses will be in order, in Commander in Chief of the Thai Royal order to allow delegates to discuss crises and Army appointed by the King of Thailand, exchange ideas freely. Throughout the have assembled my own cabinet of 35 course of this committee, various crises ministers. Since its establishment as a simulating real time situations will be constitutional monarchy in 1932, Thailand reported to the delegates to resolve. has been rife with issues of political control Delegates may, either by themselves or with and growing political factions. In recent others, pass directives as a call to action. years, our country has struggled with Delegates are further encouraged to multiple changes of power within the communicate with other delegates and crisis government, which has led our people to members via communiqués. Each delegate lose faith in us. will be representing a real member of the The purpose of my newly proposed Thai cabinet, and will thusly inherit said cabinet, serving under the military junta members’ powers in assuming his/her role. named National Council of Peace and Order It is also important to note that as this (NCPO), is to usher in a new era of peace committee takes place in the year of 2014, and prosperity. In such a time of distress and you will be assuming duties of each cabinet chaos, we must address the divisive factions member in that year. The chair of the in our political parties that could lead to committee will be representing the Prime protests, violence, and ultimately, a Minister and will thusly inherit his powers fractured country. Furthermore, we must do as well. our part to assure the people of Thailand of our ability to lead the country through such unchartered and divisive times.

2 Delegate Biographies government protests that occurred in 2013- 2014, and was a rumored PM candidate Thanasak Patimaprakorn during the protests.

Patimaprakorn is currently one of the six deputy prime ministers serving under Prayut Chan-o-cha’s cabinet and is the Paochinda is currently the Minister of Minister of Foreign Affairs. He previously the Interior, and previously was the served as Thailand’s Chief of Defense Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Forces, in which he was in charge of all Army from 2007 to 2010 and Chan-o-cha’s three branches of the Royal Thai Armed predecessor in the military. He was a crucial Forces. In his previous military role, he was figure during the 2006 Thai coup that also a subordinate to the then-army chief, deposed PM . Prayut Chan-o-cha. In his current positions, Furthermore, in the 2010 “Red Shirts” Patimaprakorn works to strengthen uprising, Paochinda initiated a military Thailand’s communication with foreign crackdown of protest movements. governments, and in particular has been working with the Prime Minister to establish Wissanu Krea-ngam closer ties to China. Krea-ngam is one of the six deputy Prime Ministers in the new cabinet. He was Adul Sangsingkeo the former deputy Prime Minister under Sangsingkeo is currently the Minister of Thaksin Shinwatra’s government from 2002 Social Development and Human Security. to 2006, during which time he was Previously, he served as the National Police responsible for legal and parliamentary Chief of the Royal Thai Police, where he affairs. He was a major figure in drafting the partnered with the UN Office on Drugs and post-coup 2014 interim constitution. Crime to aid in drug control within Thailand and South East Asia. In his current position, Paiboon Khumchaya Sangsingkeo is working on policies to help Khumchaya is the Minister of Justice in improve the quality of life for the the new cabinet. He is responsible for the underprivileged, disabled, and impoverished continued reinforcement of martial law post- populations. He has also worked to control coup. Khumchaya previously served as an within Thailand. assistant army chief in the Thai military.

Prawit Wongsuwan Pridiyathorn Devakula Wongsuwan is one of the Deputy Prime Devakula is one of the six deputy Prime Minsters as well as the Minister of Defense. Ministers appointed in the new cabinet. He was previously the Commander-in-Chief Devakula formerly was the governor of the of the and served as the and a minister of finance Minister of Defense for Thailand from 2008- in Chulanont’s interim civilian government 2011 under then-PM Abhisit Vejjajiva. in 2006. He was heavily critical of Yingluck Wongsuwan has maintained close ties with Shinawatra’s economic policies, and served PM Chan-o-cha, dating back several years to as an economic advisor post-2014 coup to when they served in the 21st Infantery the National Council for Peace and Order. Regiment together, and even formed a military clique known as the “Eastern Tigers.” He greatly supported the anti-

3 Yongyuth Yuthavong chief under General Paochinda in the Thai Yuthavong is one of the six deputy military. Prime Ministers in the new cabinet. He was previously the president of Thailand’s Pannada Diskul National Science and Technology Diskul is the Minister attached to the Development Agency until 2004, and served Office of the Prime Minister (OPM). The as the Minister of Science and Technology OPM is the central executive agency of the from 2006 to 2008. He has worked to shift government, and works to assist the PM in Thailand from an agricultural-based execution of duties and manage policies. It economy into an industrial and digital one. also acts to record and assist the cabinet in various manners. Sommai Phasee Phasee is the Minister of Finance in the Pichet Durongkaveroj new cabinet. In his new position, he faces Durongkaveroj is currently the Minister issues such as the reforming the tax system, of Science and Technology in the new repaying government loans from a long- cabinet. He previously served as the director accrued debt, and increasing long-term of the e-ASEAN Coordination Center, investments in the country. The Ministry of which is involved with the ASEAN Finance is considered on the most important (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). and influential ministries in the government. The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) is responsible for forwarding Pornchai Rujiprapa policies and plans in advancement regarding Rujiprapa is currently the Minister of policies and research for science, Information and Communication technology, and innovation. Technology. The Ministry of ICT has worked to set up panels for national broadband policies, promotion of e- Pramudwinai is the Deputy Minister of commerce and digital content, and digital Foreign Affairs, serving with Thanasak economy laws. The ICT Ministry has also Patimapragorn, the Minister of Foreign been working to restructure multiple state Affairs. Pramudwinai was previously the agencies. Ambassador of Thailand to USA and also a Representative of Thailand to the United Sutee Markboon Nations. Markboon is the Deputy Minister of Interior under the new cabinet. He, along Surasak Kanchanarat with the Minister of Interior Anupong Kanchanarat is the Minister of Labor, Paochinda, is in charge of local and was previously the permanent Secretary administrations, internal security, and of Defense in the Thai military. The appointing governors to the provinces in Ministry of Labor helps oversee labor Thailand. administration and protection, skill development, and employment promotion. Udomdej Sitabutr Sitabutr is the Deputy Minister of Narong Pipathanasai Defense, and works under the Minister of Pipathanasai is the Minister of Education Defense, . Sitabutr and previously was the Chief of Navy in the previously held the position of deputy army Thai military. He supported integration with

4 the ASEAN economic community (AEC) as Topic A: Escalating Violence means of expanding educational opportunities and student exchange. and Dividing Factions

Chakramon Phasukavanich Introduction Phasukavanich is the Minister of Trade and Industry under the new cabinet, and was The events leading up to and after previously the permanent secretary of this major political shift serve as an Ministry of Industry from 2004 to 2014. The indication of the issues the cabinet must ministry is responsible for promoting and address. It is extremely critical that the regulating industries. Phasukavanich has cabinet both appeal to the public in such been a huge supporter of moving towards precarious times and still maintain its new sustainable practices within industries. role in government. In the aftermath of Prayut Chan-o-cha’s ascension to power, he Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul and his cabinet will have to deal with the Wattanavrangkul is the Minister of lingering concerns of protesters from Tourism and Sports, and previously served previous political crises, the potential as the CEO of Toshiba Thailand. She is one growth of new protesters, and criticisms of the only two women in the new cabinet. from the multitude of opposing political The ministry is in charge of promoting the parties. To address these subjects, the tourist industry and cabinet must be able to communicate management/organization of important effectively with each other and with sporting events. Recently, Wattanavrangkul adversary groups through negotiations and has been working towards bringing an end compromises in order to ensure that chaos towards the sex tourism industry. and disapproval for the new cabinet does not spiral into a dangerous and uncontrollable Daopong Rattanasuwan situation. Rattanasuwan is the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment in the new cabinet. He has been working on alleviating Historical Background climate change by decreasing carbon dioxide emissions. The ministry of Natural The coup of May 2014 represents the Resources and Environment works with the latest in a long series of coups, totaling 19 Ministry of Industry as it looks over the since the beginning of Thailand’s Forest Industry organization. constitutional monarchy in 1932.1 These coups have often resulted from the refusal of Petipong Pungbun Na Ayudha various factions to accept the results of the Petipong is the Minister of country’s elections.2 The red shirt faction, Agriculture and Cooperatives under the new which represents the poor, rural class, and cabinet, and was previously the permanent the yellow shirt faction, which represents the Secretary for the Ministry of Natural wealthier, urban class, have frequently Resources and Environment from 2004- 2007. He has published works on land 1 reform and land policy as well as being Fuller, Thomas. "Turbulence Is Predicted for New Chief in Thailand." Nytimes.com. The New York involved in government committees on Times, 29 Jan. 2008. Web. 8 July 2016. flood prevention and mitigation. 2 Ibid.

5 protested against ruling governments from coup that ousted then Prime Minister the other side.3 Claiming to prevent further Thaksin Shinawatra.11 In December 2007, violence and instability, the military has his ally Samak Sundaravej of the People’s frequently intervened, staging coups d’état Power Party was elected as the new prime and overthrowing civilian governments.4 minister.12 However, his tenure proved to However, several years after each coup, be short-lived; following months of protests civilian governments have regained power by yellow shirts, including the occupation of and elections have resumed, although with two airports, the Constitutional Court no guarantee against future coups.5 removed Sundaravej from office, citing Much of the unrest in 2008-2010 and conflict of interest violations.1314 in 2013-2014 resulted from a divide between A few months later in December poorer, rural voters and the more affluent, 2008, his entire party was disbanded urban elite. The former largely backed following a Constitutional Court ruling that Thaksin Shinawatra for his populist policies found the party guilty of electoral fraud.15 that helped poor farmers, such as the The Thai Parliament then elected a new implementation of microloans and universal Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva of the health care. 6 The red shirts became angered Democrat Party, a leader supported by the by the 2006 coup that removed Shinawatra yellow shirts, thus prompting protests from from power and by the subsequent the red shirts.16 Starting with sit-ins, the red Constitutional Court actions that removed shirts later occupied a venue due to host a his supporters from office.7 On the other regional summit, forcing it to be cancelled in hand, the yellow shirts opposed Shinawatra, April 2009.17 In , red shirt accusing him of corruption, abuse of power, protesters clashed with troops, leaving two ignoring the interests of the rest of the dead and dozens injured.18 In March 2010, country, and lacking loyalty to the king.8 an estimated 150,000 red shirt protesters They protested against the policies of the called on the government to step down and Shinawatra siblings and wanted both to occupied key areas of Bangkok, including leave the government forever.9 the financial district, Parliament and a TV The origins of the latest coup date station.1920 These occupations paralyzed the back to the political crisis of 2008-2010, which itself stemmed from the 2006 coup 10 d’état. In September 2006, protests from 11 "Profile: Thailand's Reds and Yellows." Bbc.com. the yellow shirt faction led to a military BBC News, 13 July 2012. Web. 8 July 2016. 12 Fuller, Thomas. "Turbulence Is Predicted for New Chief in Thailand." Nytimes.com. The New York 3 Fuller, Thomas. "Turbulence Is Predicted for New Times, 29 Jan. 2008. Web. 8 July 2016. Chief in Thailand." Nytimes.com. The New York 13 “Timeline: Thailand's Political Crisis." Cnn.com. Times, 29 Jan. 2008. Web. 8 July 2016. CNN, 19 May 2010. Web. 8 July 2016. / 4 Ibid. 14 Ahuja, Ambika. "Thai Premier Ousted Over Stints 5 Brown, Patrick. "Thailand's 19th Coup Underscores on Cooking Show." Washingtonpost.com. The Country's Fatal Flaws." CBCNews. CBCNews, 31 Washington Post, 10 Sept. 2008. Web. 8 July 2016. May 2014. Web. 8 July 2016. 15 "Timeline: Thailand's Political Crisis." Cnn.com. 6 Ibid. CNN, 19 May 2010. Web. 8 July 2016. 7 Ibid. 16 "Profile: Thailand's Reds and Yellows." Bbc.com. 8 Ibid. BBC News, 13 July 2012. Web. 8 July 2016. 17 9 Ibid. Ibid. 18 10 "Timeline: Thailand's Political Crisis." Cnn.com. Ibid. CNN, 19 May 2010. Web. 8 July 2016. 19 Ibid.

6 city, but the government refused to negotiate amnesty to political leaders, including ex- or agree to the protesters’ demands.21 In PM Thaksin Shinawatra, allowing him to response to the government’s inaction and return from exile.29 Following massive street the continuing disruption of the protests to protests, the upper house of Parliament their livelihoods, many yellow shirts rejected the bill, but protests continued.30 threatened to protest.22 Facing increased Opponents of PM Shinawatra accused her of pressure from both sides, Prime Minister acting as a puppet for her brother, and a few Vejjajiva agreed to talks with the red shirts, weeks later, 100,000 anti-government but discussions quickly collapsed.23 On protesters led by the Democrat Party of ex- April 11, 2010, the Thai military used armed PM Abhisit Vejjajiva gathered in force in an attempt to end the occupations; Bangkok.31 The red shirt faction also held the resulting clashes with protesters left 21 counter-demonstrations in support of the dead and hundreds injured.24 After further government of PM Shinawatra.32 In failed attempts at negotiation the military response to the protests all members of the violently clashed with the red shirts, and Democratic Party in the House of over the course of the next few days, over 40 Representatives resigned in December 2013, protesters were killed.25 In total, between which led to the dissolution of the legislative March and May 2010, at least 90 people assembly. These actions prompted PM died as a result of the clashes and over 2,000 Shinawatra to agree to hold national were injured.26 After the heavy loss of life elections in February 2014, but protests and failure to achieve any of their goals, the continued as opponents of her government red shirts ended their protests and demanded that she step down immediately.33 occupations on May 20.27 In February 2014, the Constitutional Court In July 2011, , ruled the election invalid due to disruption sister of ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra and ally by protesters.34 In May 2014, the of the red shirts, won a landslide victory and Constitutional Court removed PM became the country’s first female prime Shinawatra from office, and shortly after, minister.28 In November 2013, the lower the Royal Thai Army seized control of the house of the Thai parliament, controlled by country by scrapping the constitution, Shinawatra’s party Pheu Thai, passed a declaring martial law and enforcing it by controversial bill that would have granted imposing a curfew, removing all TV

20 Heck, Matthew. "Thai Red Shirts Protest against Thai Government, 2010." Swarthmore.edu. Swarthmore College, 17 Oct. 2010. Web. 18 July 29 2016. "Thailand Senate Rejects Controversial Amnesty Bill - BBC News." Bbc.com. BBC, 12 Nov. 2012. 21 Ibid. Web. 19 Oct. 2016. 22 Ibid. 30 Ibid. 23 Ibid. 31 Lefevre, Amy Sawitta. "Thai Capital Hit by 24 Ibid. Biggest Protests since Deadly 2010 ..." Reuters, 24 25 Ibid. Nov. 2013. Web. 19 Oct. 2016. 26 "Thailand’s 2010 Red Shirt Protests and the 32 Ibid. Government ..." Human Rights Watch, 3 May 2011. 33 Fuller, Thomas. "Protests Continue in Thailand Web. 19 July 2016. After Election Is Set." The New York Times, 9 Dec. 27 Ibid. 2013. Web. 19 July 2016. 28 "Profile: Thailand's Reds and Yellows." Bbc.com. 34 "Thailand Profile - Timeline - BBC News." BBC, BBC News, 13 July 2012. Web. 8 July 2016. 13 Oct. 2016. Web. 19 Oct. 2016.

7 channels from the air, and detaining political buying land from a real estate agency at a leaders from all parties.35 heavily discounted price. In 2010, the country saw violent clashes between security forces and Thaksin Contemporary Conditions supporters who occupied the streets of Bangkok, demanding their leader’s return. Political Parties However, in in events leading up to the 2014 Prior to the coup, the two main coup, protesters were demanding Yingluck’s political parties in Thailand were the resignation from office40 because they Democrat Party and the Pheu Thai Party. believed that Thaksin had been controlling The Democrat Party, led by Abhisit his sister’s decisions, thusly continuing to Vejjajiva, represents the interests of the influence Thai politics even after he had yellow shirt faction, largely middle to upper been ousted from office. Thousands of class urban residents as well as conservative 36 protesters gathered around government and military leaders. The Pheu Thai Party, owned buildings in Bangkok and marched led by Yingluck Shinawatra, represents the into the streets in hopes that the family’s interests of the red shirt faction, largely regime would end after years of rumored poor, rural residents who benefit from the 37 corruption, bribery, and manipulation. party’s populist policies. Pheu Thai and its Security law, however, gave police extra predecessor parties, including the People powers to disband protestors, and the Power Party, have won every election over peaceful protests quickly escalated to the past twenty years because of their strong violence. The government opposition support in the populous regions of the 38 appeared to be most concentrated among the north. upper elite and middle class members of society. Escalating Violence Government corruption was revealed Dividing Factions during Thaksin’s term in office. Courts froze Of course, the red and yellow shirt a majority of his assets, including billions of factions are the most prominent protest dollars, after a controversial land deal was 39 groups in Thailand in recent years. uncovered . In a ruling that made him the However, in the course of recent tumultuous first ever Thai prime minister to be charged years, new sub-factions and protests groups for corruption, it was discovered that have also arisen, each focusing on different Thaksin violated conflict of interest rules by agendas. Many of these insurgent groups are centered in southern Thailand. In the past, the Thai state has shown little interest in 35 Hume, Tim, and Kocha Olarn. "Thailand Ditch addressing the local grievances in the south. Martial Law for Sweeping Army Powers." CNN. The major groups are Patani United Cable News Network, 5 Apr. 2015. Web. 18 Oct. 2016. Liberation (PULO) and Barisan Revolusi 36 "Thailand's Main Political Parties." Aljazeera.com. Nacional (BNC, also known as BRN-C). Al Jazeera, 2 July 2011. Web. 8 July 2016. PULO wants Muslim-majority southernmost 37 Ibid. provinces to secede from Thailand. BRN-C 38 Ibid. 39 MacKinnon, Ian. "Former Thai PM Thaksin Found 40 Mullen, Jethro. "10 Questions: What's behind the Guilty of Corruption." The Guardian. Guardian News Protests in Thailand?" CNN. Cable News Network, and Media, 21 Oct. 2008. Web. 11 July 2016. 26 Nov. 2013. Web. 11 July 2016.

8 also seeks separatism, but their exact split between supporters of the Shinawatra demands are unclear. Ultimately, the local family, the previous government in power, population in the south demands an end of and supporters of the royalist military may perceived discrimination by Thailand, become a cause for concern should tensions recognition of their unique culture and arise. justice for the alleged abuses by Thai With regards enforcing martial law, security forces. 41 After the 2014 coup, pro the NCPO has lifted martial law in favor of and anti-government protest groups an order that allows the military to arrest and remained. One of the biggest challenges the detain individuals or groups that speak out cabinet will face is to gain the support of against the Royal family and national these groups, who are either pro-Shinawatra stability, those that commit crimes involving or calling for democratic elections. war weaponry, people who violate orders of the NCPO. However, Human Rights Watch Asia advocates that such a move doesn’t Recent Action change much and rather solidifies 43 Thailand’s “descent into dictatorship.” Many demonstrations and online protests organized in the year and leading up Concluding Remarks to the military takeover have led to 28 deaths and over 800 injuries. Post-coup The way in which the cabinet demonstrations and protests have been responds to the people’s concerns and hindered by actions of the strict and opposing groups will be a testament to its conservation military junta: harsh online staying power within the government. Based censorship and banning political gatherings on Thailand’s history of coups and in public. Since the takeover, the NCPO has instability, it is important for the cabinet to detained over 300 politicians from opposing quickly establish support from the Thai parties, activists, journalists, and individuals people in order to continue to remain in accused of supporting the former power. In a politically fragile country in government despite officially claiming that which the government has changed so often, no such practices have been made. Many of the goal of this new cabinet will not only be the imprisoned are rumored to be in to demonstrate its abilities to the Thai unofficial detention and military camps, held public, but to recognize the balance in terms for over the seven-day limit sanctioned by of controlling and conceding to its people. 42 martial law. Compared to previous coups and political crises, the aftermath of the 2014 coup has seen few protests due to such a heavy military presence. Despite bans on demonstrations, anti-junta protests have arisen as demonstrators rallied against the new government. Furthermore, a continued

41 Flowers, Andrew. "How Thailand’s Coup Could Affect Its Economy." DataLab. N.p., 23 May 2014. Web. 11 July 2016. 42 "The High Cost of Stability." The Economist. The 43 "Why Thailand’s Latest Coup Is Different This Economist Newspaper, 08 Oct. 2014. Web. 06 Oct. Time." CNBC. CNBC, 23 May 2014. Web. 07 Oct. 2016. 2016.

9 Questions the Committee Must Topic B: The Political State of Address Thailand

Introduction ● What steps can the cabinet take to

address political tensions and curb This topic is especially important in future protests without involving terms of the future of the NCPO and the violence? future growth of the country. After decades ● What tactics can the cabinet take to of failed coups, re-crafting the political state unify the many political factions that of the country will bring about much needed exist to give support to them? stability. In order for such stability and ● How far is the cabinet allowed to go growth to happen, the NCPO must in terms of relaying its messages and determine whether to remain strict in goals? controlling much of the people’s rights or ● What actions, protocols, and move towards a more open government with initiatives can the cabinet do to democratic elections. The cabinet will appeal to the public? determine the country’s course of direction

via constitutional reform and foreign relations. Specifically, the cabinet will have to revise the constitution as a means of defining its policies and goals, thus defining the political landscape. The cabinet must also consider the responses from its foreign allies and communicate with them to solidify support moving forward. Historical Background

Since 1932, Thailand has been a constitutional monarchy, with the King of Thailand serving as the Head of State and the Head of the Ruling Royal House of Chakri. The current Chakri Dynasty has been in place since the 18th century. Thailand’s royal family and its government have had a long struggle for power. Under the constitution, the King and his family have very little power. The King serves mostly as a figurehead, but is the commander in chief of the armed forces. The government has a checks-and-balances system that allows all branches of the government to have a direct say in the decisions that are made.

10 The current monarch has reigned different governing bodies of Thailand as since 1946, and holds the title of the world’s well as the protocol for future constitutions. longest reigning current monarch. In recent Major political parties have opposed the new years, the monarchy and especially the lèse constitution, which would prevent one majesté laws, which make it illegal to political party from holding a majority of defame, insult, or threaten the monarchy, seats in the senate and also give the military have been viewed as oppressive as they the power to intervene45. Additionally, some squash freedom of expression. Furthermore, question the results of the vote as the the public has viewed the relationship government prevented campaigning against between the post-2014 coup’s military junta the draft constitution. The military junta and the monarchy unfavorably, as the junta passed a law criminalizing any activity that has taken action to support the monarchy could persuade the people to vote in favor or and uphold such laws. against the constitution. Likewise, critics In the aftermath of the coup, the argue that the new requirement that voters Prime Minister made an announcement place their thumbprint on registration regarding the political status of the country. documents at polling states led many to fear In a television program titled NCPO the government would determine how an Program: Bring Back Happiness to the individual had voted. As a result, potential Nation that was broadcasted in June 2014, voters may have decided it best to avoid the General Prayuth Chan-Ocha informed the process completely Thai people that the NCPO seized control of The Southeast Asian Press Alliance the government. He said that the (SEAPA) has criticized the interim government was unable to perform its duties constitution for providing the state with successfully and a new leadership team was more power to intervene on freedom of crucial. Working groups were tasked with speech and freedom of the press. addressing national security through martial Specifically, SEAPA has identified sections law and curfew, presiding over the 34, 35, 36, 41, and 60 as provisions that government by adjusting the national undermine free speech. Section 34 budget, supporting free trade, and reducing guarantees academic freedom as long as this monopolies. He urged citizens to cooperate right does not conflict with the duties of the and promised that once the country was Thai people and not impede on differing back on its feet, all would return to normal opinions of other persons.46 According to and martial law would be revoked.44 SEAPA, this section clearly undermines argumentation, the basis of academic study. Contemporary Conditions Section 35 deals with media freedom and removed many of the provisions that were in Constitutional Reform the 2007 constitution.47 Some of these Thailand adopted an interim provisions include the right of media constitution two months after the military personnel to organize their ranks, self- coup. General Prayuth Chan-Ocha presented regulation, and promotion of professional the draft to King Bhumibol Adulyadej for approval. The constitution consists of 48 45 Palatino, Mong. "Thailand’s New Constitution: A articles divided into sections about the Blow to Rights? | The Diplomat." Thediplomat.com. The Diplomat, 17 Aug. 2016. Web. 20 Oct. 2016. 46 Ibid. 44 France-Presse, Agence. "The Deep Roots of Thailand's Southern Insurgency." NDTV.com. N.p., 47 Ibid. 28 Feb. 2013. Web. 06 Oct. 2016.

11 ethics. In addition, the draft constitution Legislative Assembly. A National Reform removed the guarantee of editorial Council was also convened to eradicate independence for state media journalists. corruption. This team had the power to study Section 36 refers to government policy and initiate reforms in all sectors of the against censorship. Censorship shall not be government. The Constitutional Drafting permitted, except by a court order, warrant, Committee, also appointed by the NCPO, or any other ground as specific by law.48 In was tasked with drafting a full constitution summary, the constitution gives the within 120 days. The NCPO was the point government various reasons to justify person for all other matters, and were given censorship. Section 41 recognizes the right all power in case the government disbanded of the public to access information, however again52. it essentially permits agencies to concoct In summary, supporters of the new various reasons to prevent the release of constitution believe that the document will information.49 And finally, section 60 refers restore stability, enhance the government’s to the distribution of television and radio ability to fight against corruption, and frequencies and orders broadcasting ensure that the NCPO’s program of reforms companies to not only advance public will not be cut short. Critics argue that the interests but also national interest and the constitution legitimizes the military’s rule security of the state.50 and prevents Thailand from ever returning to In terms of defining the role of democracy. Opponents of the constitution legislative branch of government, the also contend that the constitution is not from constitution claims that The National the people and represents the interests of the Legislative Assembly would comprise Thai military. It is up to this cabinet to decide citizens appointed by the military junta, the how to proceed in transferring from this National Council for Peace and Order interim constitution to a permanent one. (NCPO). Still, the assembly would include individuals from all walks of life and all social standings. Members are held to a very Foreign Relations strict standard: they are prohibited from During the Cold War, Thailand faced publicly declaring their religion, being violent conflicts and communist bankrupt or causing bankruptcy, or having a insurgencies in neighboring Vietnam, Laos, background of corruption. Members keep and Cambodia, as well as the emergence of 53 their religious stances private as a public communist China as a world power. As a declaration could invite further conflict into result, Thailand initially sought close 54 the south, where there are strained relations security ties with the United States. between ethnic Malay Muslims and ethnic However, it later sought to become more Thai Buddhists.51 neutral and normalized relations with 55 In the interim constitution, The communist countries. In recent years, Prime Minister is also appointed by the NCPO given recommendations from the 52 Saiyasombut, Saksith. "A First Look at 48 Ibid. Thailand’s New Interim Constitution." Asian 49 Ibid. Correspondent. Asian Correspondent, 23 July 50 Ibid. 2014. Web. 13 Aug. 2016. 53 “Thailand Foreign Affairs.” Country Studies. 51 “Freedom in the World: Thailand.” Country Studies US, 2003. Web. 13 August 2016. Freedomhouse.org. N.p., 2015. Web. 27 Spet. 54 Ibid. 2016. 55 Ibid.

12 relations with China have steadily democracy, a demand that has led to Thai improved.56 accusations of paternalism and Today, Thailand’s foreign policy is interference.63 While the US and other largely defined by its participation in Western countries condemned the coup, ASEAN and the UN. An active member of China did not criticize the new military ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian government and offered support to Thailand, Nations), Thailand has pushed for greater leading to closer Sino-Thai relations.64 economic integration and cooperation on China’s chief geopolitical and economic political, cultural, and security issues as a rival in Asia, Japan, did denounce the coup way of bringing peace to a region torn by and advocate democracy, but at the same conflict for decades.57 Under Thailand’s time, sought to protect its economic interests chairmanship, ASEAN advocated human in Thailand.65 South Korea and India both development, greater engagement with civil continued their relations with the military society, and human rights.58 ASEAN government with little change in policy and members include all the major countries of little call for democracy.66 Thailand’s fellow Southeast Asia such as Indonesia, the ASEAN members, many of them run by Philippines, Malaysia, and Vietnam.59 authoritarian governments, left Thailand to Thailand also strongly supports the UN and deal with the coup on its own.67 Despite the has contributed troops to peacekeeping apparent approval of the military operations and ratified UN treaties on a government from Thailand’s Asian variety of issues.60 Thailand receives some neighbors like Vietnam and Cambodia, development assistance from the UN and its continued pressure from the West has forced agencies, but has been developing relatively the military government to promise a new more quickly than other countries.61 constitution and democratic elections.68 Thailand’s representative has also served as the President of the Human Rights Council and is pursuing a seat on the Economic Burden Security Council.62 The political unrest has had a heavy International responses to the 2014 impact on the country’s economy. Spending Thai coup have been mixed. The US has is minimal, investment has plummeted, and condemned the coup and urged a return to trade and tourism portions of the country’s

56 Ibid. 57 “What is Thailand’s role in ASEAN? What are Thailand’s contributions towards the evolution of 63 Bower, Ernest Z., and Murray Hiebert. ASEAN?” Thailand Today. Thailand Today, 2011. “Revisiting U.S. Policy toward Post-Coup Web. 13 August 2016 Thailand.” Center for Strategic and International 58 Ibid. Studies. Center for Strategic and International 59 “ASEAN Member States.” ASEAN. Association of Studies, 25 June 2015. Web. 13 August 2016. Southeast Asian Nations, n.d. Web. 13 August 64 Ichihara Maiko, et al. “Asian Democracies and 2016. Thailand’s Military Takeover.” Carnegie 60 “Our Work.” United Nations Thailand. United Endowment for International Peace. Carnegie Nations in Thailand, 2016. Web. 13 August 2016. Endowment for International Peace, 13 October 61 Ibid. 2015. Web. 13 August 2016. 62 “Thailand Country Brief.” Australian 65 Ibid. Government Department of Foreign Affairs and 66 Ibid. Trade. Australian Government Department of 67 Foreign Affairs and Trade, n.d. Web. 13 August Ibid. 2016. 68 Ibid.

13 GDP,have shrunk69. However, the existing coups would likely gain the support of the poor economic conditions also contributed Thai population. Measures that limit the to the drop in the country’s economy. power of the military would make future Political unrest prior to 2010 left Thailand coups difficult to execute while policies that with slow economic growth. Since then, entrench the control of the military over the martial law has been enforced and civil government could ensure that the military liberties have been cut, as the military has can stop political instability without instituted a 10pm - 5am curfew. removing the current government.73 After previous bouts of political Furthermore, Thailand has long been turmoil, business in Thailand has suffered regarded as one of the most corrupt minimally, but the current economy is countries in the world, recently scoring only showing clear signs of struggle and 38% (with 100% being entirely clean) on downfall. Economic experts have cited three Transparency International’s Corruption major ways to improve the Thai economy: Perceptions Index.74 The yellow shirts have higher household spending, higher exports, long railed against the corruption of the and a larger government deficit.70 More Shinawatra siblings and would thus support specifically, a way to trigger a spurt in strong measures by the military government exports would be to undergo a significant to crack down on corruption.75 However, at depreciation of the baht. However, in the the same time, even the government of past, the Bank of Thailand and the finance Prime Minister Vejjajiva, which is supported ministry were determined to maintain the by the yellow shirts, has faced numerous value of the baht and have been reluctant to corruption allegations and accusations of depreciate the currency. Others claim that reliance on patronage networks and bribes to the government may need to adopt a new stay in power.76 The military itself has been budget to raise infrastructure spending, criticized for corruption based on continuous which they believe is essential for long-term budget increases, and much of the money competitiveness of the Thai economy.71 has gone to purchasing equipment that has 77 yet to materialize. The fraud and corruption of the military have tended to Need for Political Restructuring worsen after each coup as the military gains The new military government could more power and thus more opportunities for take a number of steps to resolve corruption.78 Measures to restrain the longstanding problems in Thai politics and corruption of the military and provide more thus appease the Thai public. The high transparency could increase public support frequency of coups has severely disrupted 72 for the military government. More frequent the Thai economy. A new constitution that convictions of corrupt leaders and harsh could ensure stability and prevent future punishments, even for those in high-level positions, could help to restore public 69 Bremmer, Ian. “Here’s What You Need to Know confidence in the government. About Thailand’s New Constitution.” TIME. TIME, 11 August 2016. Web. 13 August 2016. 70 Ahuja, Ambika. “Analysis: Thailand struggles 73 Ibid. against tide of corruption.” Reuters. Reuters, 28 74 Ibid. September 2010. Web. 13 August 2016. 75 71 Ibid. Ibid. 76 Ibid. 72 Bremmer, Ian. “Here’s What You Need to Know 77 About Thailand’s New Constitution.” TIME. TIME, Ibid. 11 August 2016. Web. 13 August 2016. 78 Ibid.

14 Additionally, much of Thailand’s confirm if the decrease in tourism is linked current government lacks political to rise of the new government.81 experience. The current prime minister has In terms of international response to spent almost his entire career in the military the coup, the United States, one of the and did not serve in any major roles in Thailand’s biggest allies, withdrew government prior to becoming leader. His approximately $3.5 million in military aid, close relationship with the royal family, and has urged tourists to halt their travels to whose archaic and repressive rules of free Thailand. 82 The EU has stated that its expressions are contested by many, is also a member states will not sign partnerships and subject of scrutiny for people. Furthermore, cooperation agreements with Thailand until he has appointed many military and police a “democratically elected government” is in officers, many of them his former comrades place.83 Other countries like the United and colleagues, with no political experience Kingdom cancelled scheduled military visits to serve in the cabinet.79 Concerns about the as a call to restore a civilian government that Thai military’s ability to run a government has been democratically elected. and its commitment to democracy may Organizations like the Human Rights Watch, erode public trust. Hierarchical military Amnesty International, and the Asian leaders may ignore the will of the people Human Rights Commission have also and rule authoritatively since they do not denounced the military junta, accusing the have to win elections or answer to NCPO of imposing censorship and constituents. Bringing politics and restrictions of free expression. accountability back into the Thai The NCPO has also cracked down on government may increase support for migration by imposing strict laws for military rule. Although public consultations registration and documentation of migrants, and elections are crucial to gauging public which has led hundreds of thousands of opinion, the cabinet will have to determine if them, many from neighboring countries, to such gatherings are beneficial or not to their flee from Thailand.84 With regards to recent goal of remaining in power. action, it appears that international allies mostly disapprove of the conservative and strict stance adopted by the NCPO and that Recent Action there could be economic repercussions in the aftermath of the military takeover. Moving Tourism, a large sector of the forward, by establishing a stable political nation’s economy, has dropped by 20% post-coup as many international countries 81 Corben, Ron. "Thailand's Tourism Industry Works 80 see Thailand as a unstable country. This to Recover from Attacks." VOA. N.p., 14 Aug. 2015. directly affects approximately 5 million Web. 18 Oct. 2016. 82 people (over 14% of the job market) that are Whitlock, Craig. "U.S. Military to Participate in employed by the Tourism industry. Major Exercise in Thailand despite Coup." However, analysts have not been able to Washingtonpost.com. The Washington Post, 7 Feb. 2015. Web. 9 Oct. 2016. 83Council of the European Union. Foreign Affairs 79 “Profile: Thai General Prayuth Chan-ocha.” BBC Council. Council Conclusions on Thailand. News. BBC, 21 August 2014. Web. 13 August 2016. Consilium.europa.eu. N.p., 23 June 2014. Web. 10 80 The Nation. "Foreign Tourists Drop by 20 per Oct. 2016. 84 Cent following Martial Law Imposition: "NCPO Continues to Address Migrant Worker Permanent Official." The Nation. The Nation, 27 Problem." Www.mekongmigration.org. Mekong May 2014. Web. 14 Aug. 2016. Migration Network, 31 July 2014. Web. 9 Oct. 2016.

15 state country, the cabinet must not only bring about stability and growth but also establish its permanent role in the international community.

Concluding Remarks

Ultimately, the political state of Thailand hangs in a precarious balance. The new cabinet has the choice to continue working closely with the monarchy in establishing its power or undergoing radical constitutional reform and implementing a new legislative branch. The cabinet must be able to weigh the consequences and attributes of both directions, keeping in mind that the goal of political restructuring is to establish a sustainable and long-lasting government. With regards to reforming the structure of the government, the cabinet must also carefully consider the opinions of the public and of its international allies. Questions the Committee Must Address

● What should the cabinet do to avoid future political instability and ultimately establish a stable political state? ● How can the cabinet revise the constitution to halt and dispel any further government takeovers? ● What can the cabinet do to appease the international community and establish stronger foreign relations? ● What actions can the cabinet take to ensure its’ integrity in the eyes of the people? ● How can the cabinet curb economic consequences from the recent unrest?

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