IFES - Thailand

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Thailand

Thailand is in the process of returning to democratic rule following the September 2006 coup. Although coup leaders suspended the 1997 constitution, dissolved parliament, and declared martial law, they also promised a rapid return to democracy. A new constitution was approved by referendum in September. Following the ratification, organic draft laws on elections, political parties, and on the Election Commission of Thailand were created by the National Legislative Assembly in anticipation of the national elections in December.

IFES is supporting Thailand’s return to democratic rule by helping the country prepare for elections, with funding from the U.S. Department of State and USAID.

Current Projects

Supporting Thailand’s Return to Democracy

Bumper sticker advertising the constitutional drafting process and a website and hotline where citizens can comment

In early 2007, IFES completed a thorough pre-election technical assessment (PETA), which offered objective analysis of Thailand’s electoral sector and presented recommendations for democratic reform and election management. In addition, studies of the draft constitution and draft election laws offered officials further analysis of electoral sector choices drawn from comparative experience.

In order to strengthen civil society’s role in the return to democracy, IFES supported local organizations in monitoring Thailand’s referendum on the 2007 Constitution. It also paired international experts with Thai civil society organizations to advance initiatives on political finance and election complaints adjudication.

In preparation for the national parliamentary election, IFES is conducting a voter education campaign in four northern provinces with local partner Population and Community Development Association (PDA). This campaign will reach over 4,000,000 Thai citizens, and aims to increase voter turnout and combat vote-buying, which is prevalent in Thailand.