Thailand rated ‘not free’ in 2025 Freedom House rankings

10 Sept 16:31 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's classification dropped from 'partly-free' to 'not-free' in the 2025 Freedom House report, scoring 34 out of 100, a decline from the previous year.
A primary reason for this downgrade was the Constitutional Court's dissolution of the Move Forward party and the 10-year political ban on its executives, stemming from their pledge to amend the lèse majesté law.
The Thai authorities' decision to repatriate activists, refugees, and asylum seekers, notably the deportation of 40 Uyghurs to China, also significantly contributed to the 'not-free' rating.
Within ASEAN, countries like Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar are also classified as 'not-free', while the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore are considered 'partly-free'.

Public expects most Kla Tham MPs to back Cabinet in censure vote, NIDA Poll finds

Yesterday 12:30 Key points summarised by AI

A recent NIDA poll indicates that a plurality of the public (30.38%) anticipates Kla Tham Party MPs will vote to support all 18 cabinet ministers targeted in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
Respondents believe the Ministry of Interior (38.78%) and the Prime Minister’s Office (21.37%) will face the toughest questioning during the censure debate.
Economic issues, particularly alleged incompetence in addressing problems (34.27%) and the rising cost of living (25.88%), are cited as the primary concerns for the government during the censure.
The public holds high expectations for the Opposition's case, with 45.65% believing clear, concrete evidence will be presented against all 18 ministers, and 41.22% expecting substantial evidence against specific ministers.