Thailand: Sit-in protest ongoing at Government House, Bangkok, against recriminalization of marijuana as of June 10

The Thai Marijuana Future Writing Network is holding an indefinite sit-in demonstration in front of the Government House in Bangkok as of June 10. Protesters have been gathering at the protest site since June 9 to oppose the government's plans to reclassify marijuana as an illegal narcotic. Organizers may end the demonstration at short notice if negotiations with officials succeed. Activists also plan to stage a protest at the House of Representatives at 10:00 June 11 if the government does not respond to their demands.

Authorities will likely bolster security at Government House over the coming days until protestors leave the protest site. Localized transport disruptions are possible if police erect roadblocks in the vicinity of the protest site. Activists could stage marches at short notice to nearby government buildings, such as the United Nations Building, prompting additional transport disruptions. Clashes between demonstrators and security personnel cannot be ruled out, especially if activists attempt to bypass security barriers or defy orders to disperse. Mass arrests could occur if protesters become overly disruptive or security forces determine demonstrators violate any public gathering permit requirements.