30 May 2023 | 05:49 AM UTC
Thailand: LGBTQ activists plan to hold pride events nationwide through June.
LGBTQ pride events to occur across Thailand through June. Increased security, localized traffic disruptions likely; skirmishes possible.
Event
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) activists plan to stage marches and other commemorative events across Thailand through June to mark Pride Month. Participants may also demonstrate over other issues, including political reforms. While the events are likely to pass off peacefully, minor isolated skirmishes cannot be ruled out at larger gatherings. Marches typically occur near public squares and shopping malls in downtown areas of cities; organizers have announced marches from the following shopping malls:
June 3: Central Khonkaen
June 4: From Pathumwan intersection to Ratchaprasong intersection in Bangkok at 14:00
June 4: Central Phuket
June 4: Central Ayutthaya
June 5: Central Korat
June 10: Central Rayong
June 17: Central Samui
June 17-18: Central Bangna
June 24: From Central Marina to Central Pattaya through Beach Road in Pattaya at 15:00
June 24: Central Ubon
June 24: Central Udon
Organizers expect more than 120,000 people to attend the march in Bangkok at 14:00 June 4, and more than 1,000 participants at the march in Pattaya from 15:00 June 24. Other rallies are likely to draw up to a few hundred participants.
Police will likely deploy to monitor and facilitate well-attended events. Officials will almost certainly impose security cordons and traffic diversions and reroute or curtail public transport serving the areas near large planned gatherings. Road closures could lead to increased congestion and traffic delays on alternative routes. Localized traffic disruptions are also likely as participants enter and leave the venue of large rallies. Skirmishes may break out, especially if demonstrators breach security cordons or raise politically sensitive issues.
Advice
Exercise caution around event venues. Check for disruptions before beginning journeys and plan alternative routes if necessary. Monitor local media for updated information about march routes and road conditions. Heed all security and traffic advisories.
