Clashes in Thailand

This item appears on page 19 of the November 2008 issue.

In Thailand, demonstrations and strikes by both anti- and pro-government factions disrupted travel at airports and rail stations in September.

Calling for the resignation of the Prime Minister (over a “corruption” scandal, several months after the previous Prime Minister was pressured out for corruption), protesters took over the Prime Minister’s office buildings in Bangkok. There were street clashes between police and protestors, and a state of emergency was declared for several days.

A new Prime Minister was elected in September, but demonstrators vowed to continue protests and the coalition government remains fragile. Travelers are urged to avoid demonstrations and be prepared for travel delays.