Thailand Country Report

Thailand is a developing country in Southeast Asia and the region's second-largest economy. Political and class divisions have undermined the country's stability for most of the past decade, resulting in two coups, the latest of which established a military government in 2014. The junta thereafter repeatedly delayed elections, citing the need for security reform before any vote could take place. An election was held in March 2019, and although no party won a clear majority, the retired general, Prayuth Chan-o-cha, was elected as the country's civilian prime minister, amid claims that the junta rigged the electoral system to ensure its long-term grip on power.

Corruption remains a concern for both local and foreign entities, despite an ongoing crackdown on allegedly corrupt officials. The government's measures to boost the struggling economy have also been slow to take effect.

A separatist insurgency remains an enduring source of insecurity in southern Thailand, and leads to occasional terrorist attacks in major urban centers, including Bangkok. Neither military operations, nor negotiations have thus far resulted in a solution to the low-level conflict. Differences among the different militant groups have also hindered attempts to reach a peace deal with Thai authorities.

Petty and opportunistic crime is a concern in Bangkok and popular tourist destinations across the country. Floods are also a recurring problem in several parts of the country, notably during the monsoon season, and air pollution is a significant issue around Bangkok and northern Thailand. Access to healthcare is scarce in rural areas.

Issues relating to armed conflict and terrorism have mainly been concentrated in the Deep South region due to an ongoing separatist insurgency, although bombings have been reported in Bangkok and other parts of the country in recent years. Petty and opportunistic crime remains a concern in the Thai capital and popular tourist destinations, despite the junta government's imposition of tighter security measures. Levels of unrest were significantly reduced due to restrictions on public gatherings put in place following the 2014 coup, but occasional escalations have occurred since the 2019 and 2023 elections, often tied to concerns about democratic rights and socio-economic inequality.

There are no major concerns over air travel.

Thailand has a significantly high rate of road fatalities, with majority of accidents involving two- and three-wheeled vehicles. There is low enforcement of traffic rules.

The ports are considered relatively efficient.

Power supply, mobile coverage and Internet connections are considered reliable in Bangkok and major cities, although the quality of such services is lower in rural areas.

Cybercrime poses a considerable threat in Thailand.

Heavy downpours and associated disruptions are common during the monsoon season, which usually runs May to October across the country, except for the southeastern coast, where the wet period runs from October to February. In addition, some parts of the country are vulnerable to earthquakes as well as life-threatening tsunamis that can result in widespread destruction.

Thailand has several diseases and health threats, like dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis. Quality of healthcare is highest in urban centers with essential health services available nationwide. Cash payment upfront is typically required for all health services rendered. Tap water is unsafe for consumption.

Despite elections held in March 2019 and a long-pledged transition to a civilian government, the military remains hugely influential. The 2019 vote resulted in the appointment of retired general Prayuth Chan-o-cha, the man who led a military coup in 2014, as the country's civilian prime minister. Political opposition groups have been subject to forced dissolution and restrictions on freedom of expression.

Thailand also suffers from high levels of corruption and weak rule of law, and international organizations have accused to the government of violating human rights on multiple occasions.