Journal of Defense Management
Open Access

Abstract

Repression, Civil Conflict and Leadership Tenure; the Thai Case Study: 2006-2014

Susan Ariel Aaronson, N. Susan Gaines and Rodwan Abouharb

The case study proceeds as follows. First we give an overview and recent history of Thailand. We next describe the civil conflict/repression relationship in Thailand focusing on the two most recent incidents of repression and civil conflict in 2006-2008 and 2010-present. We describe the repressors, and then examine the underlying factors which may cause people to protest in Thailand. Next, we focus on the nature of repression in Thailand (types and victims) as well as the Thai people’s response to repression. We next discuss the economic and political consequences of Thai repression at home and abroad. We then discuss the likelihood of continued repression in Thailand. Finally, by focusing on our three questions, we note the key points revealed by the Thai case study.