Showing 1 - 10 of 28
Rethinking Thailand's visa-free policy
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 31/03/2026
» Thailand is planning to cut visa-free stays from 60 days to 30 days. This long-overdue change reflects growing concern over the effectiveness of immigration surveillance. Moreover, scaling down visa-free stays underscores the seriousness of the Anutin government's efforts to combat scammers, illegal work, and other underground activities that exploit easy visa access to turn Thailand into a base for under-the-table operations.
Mae Sot's trade vs security dilemma
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 01/04/2025
» At Mae Sot International Airport, all passengers must now undergo a strict immigration check and police screening before they can board designated flights. The new stringent measures aim to prevent scammers from using this western border hub as a transit route across the border.
Refugees in limbo, Thailand in denial
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 18/03/2025
» Who would have thought that the infamous assault by the then State Law and Order Restoration Council, as Myanmar's military junta was formerly known, on the strongholds of the Karen National Union (KNU) in January 1984 would leave a massive time bomb for Thailand some four decades later? That military operation forced the mass displacement of Karens and other ethnic groups, pushing them to cross the Thai border in search of refuge.
Time to clean up Thailand's borders
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 18/02/2025
» Thailand's recent decision to cut electricity and other fuel to Myanmar has had far-reaching ramifications along the Thai-Myanmar and Thai-Cambodian borders. Indeed, it will also impact geopolitics in the region and beyond.
Border power cut, but problems remain
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 11/02/2025
» Hooray. After nearly a fortnight of to-and-fro brinkmanship and passing the buck among Thai agencies, the Thai government finally cut power to five border towns in Myanmar last week.
Thailand-South Korea dual narratives
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 03/12/2024
» Thailand-South Korea relations are paradoxical. The countries share a dynamic that boasts both heroic achievements and glaring challenges. While their cultural and economic ties have progressed over the decades, they are black-eyed by labour and immigration issues. Solving these irritating issues can elevate friendship and unleash the potential of bilateral cooperation.
Solving the Myanmar migrant surge
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 17/09/2024
» With the civil conflict in Myanmar showing no signs of abating soon, Thailand faces formidable challenges in irregular migration from the country. Without adequate and sustainable solutions, Thailand's overall development, including its economy, society, and security, will be seriously impacted.
Thai-Korea ties: From K-pop to policy
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 06/08/2024
» Thai singer Lalisa "Lisa" Manobal, a member of the phenomenal yet now defunct Blackpink, epitomises the modern Thai-South Korean relationship thanks to her popularity and global appeal.
Thailand recharges Myanmar policy
News, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 18/06/2024
» At his first press briefing on Friday, Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa spoke at length about Thai foreign policy under his stewardship. He covered the whole gamut of revitalised diplomatic paths the country is on and will be making in a 43-slide PowerPoint presentation.
Thai foreign policy to shift with new foreign minister
Oped, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Published on 07/05/2024
» It's not comforting to discuss Thai foreign policy at the moment, as one can hardly tell what is going to happen next.