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...

9 November 2011 The recent heavy flooding that has ravished the Southeast Asian country of Thailand has not only rattled infrastructure, but is now causing political unease within the country. Former Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva , has recently made criticizing statements towards the current political party, whom his party lost the Prime Minister seat to. The former Prime Minister has criticized Thailand’s current Prime Minister in office, Yingluck Shinawatra , of failing to properly respond to the recent heavy flooding. The current party is facing criticism from it’s political opponents for using funds towards populist programs such as, providing tablet computers for schoolchildren and offering tax breaks to individuals who are purchasing a vehicle or home for the first time, rather than using these funds towards the country’s current flood crisis. The former Prime Minister spoke at the Thai Parliament last week, where discontent for the current flood relief situat...

2 November 2011 BANGKOK, THAILAND – The recent heavy flooding in the Thai Kingdom has taken lives, displaced thousands, and is now posing an economic threat to an already weather-battered country. Thailand was once a leader among the fastest growing world economies , but has seen significant slow down in more recent years when compared to its neighboring countries, such as Vietnam and Indonesia. Much of Thailand’s recent economic underperformance has been attributed to the recent floods as well as a series of natural disasters that have hit the country over the last several years. One of the Government’s priorities is to maintain investors and keep investor confidence high. Earlier in the week, Thailand Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra voiced future plans to have an $800 billion baht ($25.97 billion) aid program to help farmers and business operators affected by flooding. Thai Government spokesman Thitima Chaisaeng, stated that major portions of aid funding will be u...