Topic: 2025 – Authoritarianism and Democracy
Country: Thailand
Delegate Name: Asher Stein
Country: Thailand
Delegate: Asher Stein
School: East Grand Rapids High School
The rise of authoritarianism has become a major global concern as economic inequality, globalization, and political polarization weaken public trust in democratic institutions. According to “The Global State of Democracy 2022,” 52% of citizens across 77 countries now support the idea of a strong leader unconstrained by elections, up from 38% in 2009. The V-Dem 2023 Report further shows that although the world is nearly evenly split between democracies and autocracies, 71% of the world’s population lives under autocratic rule. This trend is driven not by sudden coups but by the gradual erosion of checks and balances, restrictions on civil liberties, and manipulation of electoral processes.
Thailand has experienced alternating periods of democratic advancement and authoritarian consolidation. Since 1932, the country has undergone numerous coups, most recently in 2014, followed by elections in 2019 and 2023. V-Dem classifies Thailand as an electoral autocracy, reflecting the presence of multiparty elections alongside limitations on freedom of expression and political competition. Freedom House scores Thailand 30/100 on a democratic scale, citing military influence, restrictions on protest, and enforcement of laws governing the attack on the dignity or authority of rulers. While Thailand continues to develop democratic institutions, these mixed characteristics place it within the category of a hybrid regime.
The United Nations emphasizes that democratic governance is essential for stability, development, and human rights. UN General Assembly resolutions, including A/RES/75/191, reaffirm the need for free and fair elections, independent courts, and robust civil societies. UNDP research highlights how inequality, corruption, and weak institutions accelerate democratic backsliding.
Thailand believes in strengthening democratic resilience through institutional reform and international partnership. Thailand supports expanded UN assistance for electoral transparency, judicial training, and anti-corruption efforts. Domestically, Thailand aims to improve civic education, enhance digital literacy, and ensure inclusive economic development. Thailand also supports greater cooperation between ASEAN and the UN to monitor early signs of democratic erosion. Ultimately, Thailand believes democracy must be protected through strong institutions, informed citizens, and equitable social policies.
Works Cited:
International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA).
The Global State of Democracy 2022: Forging Social Contracts in a Time of Discontent.
International IDEA, 2022.
Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Institute.
Democracy Report 2023: Defiance in the Face of Autocratization.
University of Gothenburg, 2023.
Freedom House.
“Thailand – Freedom in the World 2023.”
Freedom House, 2023.
United Nations General Assembly.
Resolution A/RES/75/191 – Strengthening the Role of the United Nations in Enhancing Periodic and Genuine Elections.
United Nations, 2020.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Human Development Report 2022–2023: Uncertain Times, Unsettled Lives.
UNDP, 2023.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The Global State of Democracy Spotlight Report 2023.
Referenced in the topic background.
