How hunger strikes became a powerful tool against oppression

14 Sept 01:44 Key points summarised by AI

Thai protest leaders Parit Chiwarak and Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul are currently on hunger strike, demanding the release of detained political activists, drawing growing health concerns and pleas from supporters to end their fasts.
Historically, hunger strikes have served as a potent non-violent weapon against oppression, with figures like Mahatma Gandhi and British suffragette Marion Wallace Dunlop effectively using self-starvation to pressure authorities and achieve political goals.
In Thailand, politician Chalad Worachat's 1992 hunger strike is credited with helping topple a dictatorship, demonstrating the method's capacity to galvanize public support and force political change despite initial ridicule.
This form of protest, while perilous due to severe health risks, strategically leverages humanitarian concern to shame those in power, compelling action by highlighting the extreme sacrifices made for a cause.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Today 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.