Thailand: Anti-government protest in Bangkok May 2

Event

A large crowd gathered outside the UN regional headquarters in Bangkok on Wednesday, May 2, to urge the government to put an end to what they allege to be intimidation of community activists by authorities. Police officers were deployed to control the crowds. Continued related protests are possible and outbreaks of violence cannot be ruled out. 

Context

The demonstration was organized by the People's Movement for Just Society (P-Move), a network representing farmers, the urban poor, and indigenous people forced out from their land. This popular mobilization underscores growing public discontent ahead of a general election repeatedly delayed by the military government (National Council for Peace and Order) of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. Historically, Thailand was rocked by often deadly street protests between 2008 and 2014. The ruling junta has clamped down on freedom of expression since the 2014 coup and subsequently banned public gatherings.

Advice

Individuals present in Thailand - especially in Bangkok - are advised to keep abreast of the situation, stay away from public gatherings and rallies, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.