In once serene Thailand, silence seems to be a dying breed. From temples blasting prayers through loudspeakers to karaoke nights in the countryside and motorbikes dominating the streets 24/XNUMX, peace is rarer than a white elephant. But what does that mean for quality of life, spirituality, and a society once known for its inner peace?
Pattaya was a popular destination for European tourists for many years. Sun, hospitality and relaxation attracted generations to this Thai coastal town. But that image is changing. Mass tourism, changing behaviour and a different atmosphere are causing more and more Europeans to pack their bags, this time without returning.
In Thailand, the law does not seem to apply equally to everyone. Foreigners are fined for not wearing a helmet, while Thai youths can easily ride past the police without a helmet. What does that say about the equality before the law in this country?
The pick-up – a matter of drifting
Pick-ups are popular in Thailand, mainly as a status symbol. But behind that tough exterior lies a harsh reality: they are often the most dangerous vehicles on the road. While Europe has introduced strict regulations after fatal accidents, Thailand is lagging behind. Anyone driving a pick-up feels invulnerable. And that has major consequences – especially for the most vulnerable road users.
Thailand is to review its visa-free regime following growing concerns about illegal activities by foreign tourists. The government wants to introduce stricter controls while maintaining fairness and hospitality for tourists. The changes come at a time when crime among visitors is receiving increased attention and raises questions about the balance between security and open borders.
The silent power of the Thai military in society
In Thailand, the military is much more than a defense force. Behind the scenes, it has been determining the course of the country for decades. From politics to economics and education, its influence reaches far. What makes the Thai military so powerful, and why is true democracy still in jeopardy?
In the heart of Pattaya lies Soi 6, a street that strips tourism of all illusion. Under bright neon lights, bodies are traded like commodities, fueled by deep poverty and Western demand. What began as a rest stop for soldiers has become a raw human market where economic inequality and moral decay go hand in hand.
Thailand cherishes its traditions, but increasingly uses nationalism as a shield against change. Instead of protection, the policy proves to be an obstacle to education, innovation and open debate. What is the price of pride when it stands in the way of progress?
Thailand wants to move away from mass tourism and focus on travellers with a high spending power and an eye for sustainability. However, a shortening of the visa-free period threatens to undermine this strategy. Wellness resort Chiva-Som warns: the country risks losing valuable visitors if the policy does not allow for long-term stays and targeted hospitality.
The deadly collapse of the SAO building in Thailand reveals the serious lack of oversight in the construction industry. Lack of control, legal loopholes and corruption create life-threatening situations. Experts have been warning for years, but regulations are still lacking. How long before the next disaster strikes?
After the collapse of the State Audit Office building in Bangkok, clear answers are still lacking. While the government asks for more time, suspicions mount about construction errors, defective materials and political influence. What started as a construction disaster grows into a national crisis of confidence.
How Could a Skyscraper Collapse in Bangkok? Facts, Rumors and the Shadow of Corruption
A modern tower collapses like a house of cards after a distant earthquake. While other buildings in Bangkok remain standing, this skyscraper is reduced to rubble. Investigators encounter warning signs, questionable material choices and political interests. What went wrong here – and could it have been prevented?
Bureaucracy in Thailand is hampering reforms
While countries around the world are modernizing their governments, Thailand is clinging to an outdated and expensive bureaucratic system. Experts warn that the country’s slow, centralized governance is hampering investment, slowing innovation and fueling corruption. Without major reforms, the country risks further losing its competitive position in the region.
The Thai government is considering legalizing casinos to boost tourism and revenue. Supporters see economic opportunities, while critics warn of corruption, money laundering and gambling addiction. Can Thailand compete with Macau and Singapore, or is it at risk of falling prey to organized crime? The coming months will be crucial.
Thailand faces many challenges in 2025
Thailand is at a crossroads, with an economy struggling with slowing growth, rising debt and increasing competition. At the same time, technological advances and a changing labour market offer new opportunities. Political stability and sound policies are now crucial to turning challenges into opportunities and forging a sustainable path to prosperity.
Twenty Wasted Years in Thai Politics
I am translating here an opinion piece by Thitinan Pongsudhirak from the Bangkok Post of December 19, 2024. He talks about Thailand's partly failed progress in socio-economic and political areas.
Thailand's Demographic Crisis: A Call to Action
Thailand is in the midst of a demographic crisis of unprecedented proportions. Its birth rate is among the lowest in the world, and the country is at risk of irreversible population decline. According to a study by Chulalongkorn University’s Sasin School of Management, Thailand’s birth rate has fallen by 74% over the past 81 years. This places the country third in the world in terms of declining birth rates, after South Korea…
Donald Trump’s re-election could have major implications for Thailand. His preference for bilateral deals offers opportunities, but also risks, especially with China’s growing influence in the region. What can we expect in terms of trade, military cooperation and diplomacy? An exciting balance for Thailand in the coming years.
Reform monasticism or else new scandals will keep coming
Thai monk V Vajiramedhi, once praised for his modern Buddhist approach, has come under fire for his support of controversial company iCon Group. What began as an attempt to make spirituality more accessible has led to a public scandal, with him accused of greed and distancing himself from Buddha's teachings.
Opinion: Is Paetongtarn Shinawatrade's new Prime Minister of Thailand or is it her father Thaksin?
Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been elected as Thailand's youngest prime minister, but many wonder how much influence her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has behind the scenes. As she tries to make her own mark, ties with her father, who was once deposed in a military coup, remain a central talking point in Thai politics.