Civil-Military Relations in Thailand

Protestors in Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand has experienced weeks of student-led protests in opposition to the current prime minister and former general, Prayuth Chan-ocha, and his government's crackdown on political opposition and dissent against the monarchy. In the wake of this unrest, rumors have sprung up about the possibility of another military coup by the Thai military. General Narongpan Jittkaewtae, the military's new Army chief, responded to such rumors with assurances that "the chance of making a coup is zero," as long as no particular group instigates a situational or violent conflict. But one can infer that if such a group does arise, even among the ongoing protests, the military could very well respond with force. 

The Royal Thai Armed Forces has a history of political intervention--for example, there have been 30 attempted coups in 80+ years. Its generals have consolidated much domestic power through a close relationship with the monarchy and extensive influence over Thai society, including in schools (military regimentation, conscription) and the government's Civil Service. The military also appoints all 250 members of the Senate and is the country's largest landowner after accounting for the government's national parks. Generals justified Thailand's most recent coups, in 2006 and 2014, as necessary to protect the royal family; in turn, for protection and an armed eye on domestic unrest, the king grants legitimacy to the military, even during coups. 

Compared to other countries, and specifically other democracies, Thailand's civil-military relations are unique--both in the king's and military's quasi-codependence, and the military's clear influence over civil society. As the protests continue, the Thai military may have another opportunity for political intervention--but given popular sentiment towards both civil government and the monarch right now, the military's generals may experience decreased legitimacy as well as a lack of popular support. In the meantime, calls for democratic reform will continue.