The Impact of Democracy and Political Stability in Thailand in the Post-Coup Era

Abstract

A coup is an event that has occurred multiple times in Thailand's political history, with significant impacts on the stability and development of the country's political system. In Thailand, coups often result in political instability by diminishing the power of the people in elections and political participation. Additionally, it weakens political institutions responsible for checking state power, such as independent organizations and the Constitutional Court. This leads to an imbalance in the checks and balances process, a lack of transparency in government operations, and the restriction of political freedoms. At the same time, public confidence in the political system has clearly declined. The study of the relationship between coups and the promotion of political freedoms reveals that, despite opposition from the public and various political groups, a coup gives the government the power to control and act without public scrutiny or the checks of a diverse political system. A coup restricts freedom of expression and the right to assembly, which has a lasting impact on the long-term development of democracy. While analyzing the participation of citizens and various sectors of society in strengthening and protecting democracy after a coup, promoting democracy in a situation of limited power is not easy. Civil participation becomes an important tool in pressuring and challenging the government to respect the rights and freedoms of the people. However, in contrast, a political system controlled by the military or a military government makes participation in the political process risky and significantly restricted. To protect and promote democracy in Thailand's future, political development and stability must rely on building sustainable political participation. It is essential to affirm the importance of maintaining transparency in government management, as well as promoting effective power checks to allow the public to fully engage in the political process. Promoting democracy in Thailand must ensure that the public recognizes the importance of safeguarding political rights and freedoms, without being under the control of undemocratic powers.