A Glimpse Into Thailand

Located near Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia, the Southeast Asian country of Thailand is home to a rich culture and history. The official language is Thai, although more than 60 languages and various dialects are spoken throughout the region. Buddhism (primarily Theravada Buddhism) is the predominant religion, practiced by nearly 90-95% of the population. Muslims, heavily concentrated in southern regions, account for about 4% while the remaining percentage includes Christians, Sikhs, Hindus, and a variety of folk religions. 

Recognized by their shaved heads and draping orange robes, Buddhist monks represent a complex religion embedded deeply within Thai culture. They are highly respected in society and many men become monks in their late teens. Nearly 30,000 temples can be found throughout the country, their ornate architecture on display for visitors and followers alike.

Known previously as Siam, the nation renamed itself Thailand in 1939. Unlike many Southeast Asian countries, Thailand was never colonized – instead often acting as a buffer state for the British and French. The nation also lost control over areas (parts of modern-day Cambodia and Laos) to colonial powers. In the wake of drastic economic, political, and military changes in the early twentieth century, Thailand experienced numerous coups d’état. Alongside the journey towards a more stable government, Thailand has seen strife between ethnic groups, about border disputes, and migrant working conditions. Concerns have also been raised over human rights issues and abuse within the nation. 

To the right is the national flag of Thailand (Kingdom of Thailand), adopted in 1917. The design has gone through several variations throughout the centuries, several of which included a white elephant positioned in the center of the flag. The colors each have a symbolic meaning: red for the people and the blood shed for the nation, white for religion, and blue for the monarchy.

On the global stage, Thailand is recognized as a newly industrialized economy with a GDP of 501.8 billion USD as of 2020. Rapid industrialization during the 1970s-1980s greatly contributed to Thailand’s economic shift from primarily agriculture to industry and manufacturing. Today, the service sector accounts for roughly 50% of the nation’s economy. Thailand faces several environmental issues, earning an ETR (ecological Threat Register) score of 3.000 and ranking 88th out of 178 countries. Environmental disasters and water risks are the main concern but other issues include soil erosion, deforestation, and air pollutants. Thailand also has a GINI Coefficient of 36.5, representing a higher income inequality. The GINI Index measures a nation’s income distribution with the GINI coefficient representing the net income and inequality. (See Investopedia’s article for a further explanation of the GINI Index and its methodology). The 2022 Global Peace Index places Thailand at an overall score of 2.100 and ranks 103th out of 163 countries, indicating a relatively low level of crime and violence. In comparison, the United States rates 129th with a score of 2.440. As of January 7th, 2022, Thailand also ranks 88th out of 179 countries on the Fragile States Index, in terms of instability.

Thailand continues to face internal and external conflicts while simultaneously producing a vibrant culture. In many aspects, the sprawling metropolitan areas and surrounding rural regions clash – yet in many other ways, they intertwine through complex relationships. Future posts will continue to explore this captivating country, seeking to understand its role in a globalized world and discussing the impact on Thailand’s people.

Article written by Alexa Rose.