Thailand: Anti-government demonstrations scheduled in Bangkok on November 6 and 8 /update 15

Event

Anti-government demonstrations are scheduled to take place in Bangkok on Friday, November 6, and Sunday, November 8. The demonstrations will take place at the Democracy Monument, with participants expected to gather at the monument at approximately 10:00 (local time) on Friday and at 16:00 on Sunday. The demonstrations are expected to be very well attended.

A heightened security presence and associated disruptions to transportation are likely in the vicinity of the gathering in the near term.

Context

Public opposition has grown against Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha over government spending, the dissolution of an opposition party, and many other factors. Activists have also called for reforms to the powers of the monarchy. Protests on an increasing scale have been held in Bangkok and other locations across Thailand in recent weeks. Counter protests have also been held, particularly in support of the monarchy.

Thailand's cabinet approved a 30-day state of emergency in Bangkok on October 16, following the emergency decree announced on October 15, due to large-scale demonstrations denouncing the government, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha, and calling for reforms to the monarchy. Emergency measures banned gatherings of more than five people within the city and prohibited the publication of news or dissemination of online messages which could "create fear". The Prime Minister also warned that a nightly curfew may be introduced if unrest continues. On October 16, police used water cannon to disperse thousands of protesters who had gathered in the Pathumwan area in defiance of the decree. Prior to protests within the city on October 17, the entire BTS Skytrain system and the MRT Blue and Purple Lines of Bangkok's mass transit system were closed. Police have stated that they are currently investigating four domestic media outlets for their coverage of the protests.

On Thursday, October 22, the state of emergency in Bangkok was revoked as the Prime Minister attempts to de-escalate the situation, stating that he would lift the state of emergency in exchange for the protests remaining peaceful. A number of anti-government protesters who had been detained were also released on bail on Friday, October 23. 

Advice

Those in Bangkok are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid protests or demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.

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