Political Profile of Thailand

For the past 60 years Thailand has been adopting Western democratic system. Political profile of Thailand can be described as parliamentary democratic constitutional monarchy. The Prime Minister is the Head of Government. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is under both the government and the two chambers of parliament. The Judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature. After 800 years of absolute monarchy, in 1932 King Prajadhipok signed the first constitution. After the World War II Thailand was dominated by the military until 1979 when power was taken by business elite.

The government is responsible for administration of 13 ministries and the office of Prime Minister /PM/. Each ministry is headed by appointed minister.

The Thai armed forces are divided in three branches: Royal Thai Army, Royal Thai Navi and Royal Thai Air Force. All Thai soldiers are professional career soldiers or conscripts. Every Thai male of age between 21 and 25 is subject under two years of military service.

The King is symbol of national identity. He has the moral power to resolve political crisis threatening national stability.

Major parties in Thailand – Democratic Party, Thai Nation Party, Thais Love Party, Great People’s Party

Minor parties in Thailand – National Development Party, Social Action Party, Citizens’ Party, Thai Motherland Party