Showing 121 - 130 of 149
The myth of Thailand's demographic doom
News, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 20/03/2015
» It is easy and tempting these days to be discouraged with Thailand. The place reeks of bad news, and is full of tension and challenges in its society, economy and politics. Yet the Thai story remains counterintuitive and compelling. With daunting dilemmas in all directions, Thailand should not have space for complacency. But it also should not be a place without hope.
Deft diplomacy needed for coup period
News, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 06/02/2015
» The recent brouhaha over controversial comments by visiting United States Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Russel has further complicated the bilateral treaty alliance between Bangkok and Washington.
Virtual lockdown to spill over into 2015
News, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 26/12/2014
» In the wake of a deceptive calm following the military coup on May 22, prospects for next year are characterised by anxiety and apprehension over what is to come.
Time to go all the way in corruption fight
News, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 12/12/2014
» There has never been a better time to step up and solidify anti-corruption efforts in Thailand.
Location will save Thailand from itself
News, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 05/12/2014
» As Thailand's prolonged navel-gazing meanders from crisis to crisis, one of the leading questions facing this country is whether it will eventually emerge intact and be able to overcome its proven propensity to shoot itself in the foot.
China has global leadership in its sights
News, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 21/11/2014
» This geopolitical summit season has consolidated ongoing megatrends in international affairs. A still-rising China with global leadership aspirations and a resurgent Russia bent on imperial restoration in view of dysfunction in Western countries will dominate international politics for at least the next 20 years.
On the political front, it's curiously quiet
News, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 07/11/2014
» Nearly six months after its latest military coup, Thailand's political landscape looks pitiful and puzzling at the same time.
Generals risk hard landing without policy experts
News, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 19/09/2014
» Thailand's new military regime has ushered in several major breaks from past traditions since it seized power on May 22. Among them, the role of technocrats is most conspicuous. In the past, when the Thai military was ascendant and resurgent, the role and contribution of technocrats became more wide-ranging and pronounced. The proven relationship between the military and technocracy is crucial to the legitimacy and credibility of ruling generals during military-authoritarian periods.
Jokowi’s win saves democratisation
News, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 25/07/2014
» Many years from now when we look back at the fate of democracy and regionalism in Southeast Asia, the election victory of Indonesia’s President-elect Joko “Jokowi” Widodo is likely to be seen as pivotal.
Public must own anti-corruption drive
News, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Published on 27/06/2014
» As Thailand’s fate is being determined by a military intervention in politics that will either be a necessary detour or a dangerous descent from democratic rule, the performance and track record of the self-empowered military authorities are critical for any semblance of political legitimacy.