Thailand’s political space widened following the 2023 elections, but competition remained restricted under the 2017 constitution and politicized institutions. The Senate blocked the Move Forward Party’s prime-ministerial bid, enabling a Pheu Thai–led coalition under Srettha Thavisin, who was removed by the Constitutional Court in 2024 and replaced by Paetongtarn Shinawatra. A subsequent dissolution of the Move Forward Party and widespread human rights violations further limited political pluralism.
Economic recovery remained weak despite the end of the pandemic and the formation of an elected government. Growth was modest, driven mainly by tourism, while structural constraints and political uncertainty continued to weigh on performance. Broader diversification and stability gains remained limited.
Governance was characterized by concentrated authority, palace influence and constrained reform capacity. King Maha Vajiralongkorn retained extensive control over the security sector, reinforced through key appointments. Constitutional reform efforts were blocked by the Senate, limiting consensus-building and weakening accountability.
