A Comparative Study of Political Freedom in Thailand Through Political Literature Before (2440–2475 B.E.) and After (2475–2500 B.E.) the Regime Change

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) study political freedom in Thailand through political literature prior to the change of government during B.E. 2440–2475 (the absolute monarchy period), (2) study political freedom in Thailand through political literature after the change of government during B.E. 2475–2500 (the democratic period), and (3) compare political freedom in Thailand through political literature before and after the change of government-between B.E. 2440-2475 (absolute monarchy) and B.E. 2475–2500 (democracy). This study was qualitative in nature, employing document analysis and in-depth interviews. The key informants were selected according to the research framework, comprising a total of 18 individuals: 5 political literature authors, 5 scholars in political science and public administration, 5 scholars in political literature, and 3 politicians. Data were verified through triangulation and analyzed using content analysis methods. The research findings revealed that: (1) prior to the regime change, political freedom in Thailand was suppressed through imprisonment, the banning of publications, character defamation, and physical torture; (2) after the regime change, political freedom was controlled through life imprisonment, the enactment of laws, and the promotion of state-sponsored literature; and (3) a comparison of political freedom in both periods indicated that various forms of control consistently restricted political freedom in Thai society, both under the absolute monarchy and the democratic regime.