Global Security Studies Practicum

6 December 2011 BANGKOK, THAILAND – Very rarely are the people of Thailand graced with the presence of their leader, King Bhumibol Adulyadej . The Thai King recently made a public appearance in order to show his support to victims affected by the recent heavy flooding. The King also made it a point to declare an end to various political conflicts and encourage cooperation among his subjects in order to better serve the millions of Thai citizens that have been hit hard by flooding. The King was met by a large crowd in the tens of thousands, holding flags and chanting, “ Trong phra charoen! ”. However, out of respect for those that are still suffering, the King asked of his people that their celebrating be put on hold. Normally, this time would be one of celebration with the King’s birthday and the procession of Royal barges down the Chao Phraya River , but the heavy flooding has resulted in the crest of the River making it inaccessible. Currently 84 years of age, King Bhum...

26 October 2011 THAILAND – Despite advanced efforts to combat potential flooding, Bangkok is now seeing several of its districts succumb to powerful flood waters. Thailand’s Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra , recanted earlier statements made regarding the certainty that the capitol city would indeed be safe from flooding. Thai officials went to great lengths to impose barriers and water gates, but the powerful force of the flood waters have proved to be too much for the barriers in place. Thai officials are maintaining a close watch on the Chao Phraya River , which snakes through Bangkok and has begun to overflow into neighborhoods in the capitol city. Reports have been made of about 4 inches of water around the inner city in the Lak Si district of Bangkok, where several government buildings are located. The Thai government has declared a public holiday to go on through next week in order to encourage residents who have not properly gathered supplies and set up defenses...