Thai Civilization/Current Problems Thailand Is Facing

Big Problems

Thailand, like some other countries, is facing several problems. Many are trivial; some are significant or BIG. I have reflected on the big problems, as a Thai fellow, that I think are challenging the well-being of Thailand.

In fact, a small-scale survey conducted by one of my students revealed that the five big problems were ranked as follows:

1. Economic Problems
2. Red-Yellow Groups
3. The Deep South
4. Environment-related
5. Racism

It was found that the environment-related problems (such as global warming or rising sea-level) were ranked lower.

This finding confirms the findings reported by the Thai government and the World Bank. This is what the summary of the report has stated:

"The overall environment for investment in Thailand got slightly worse in 2007 when compared with 2004. Moreover, future investment decisions by Thai companies could well be affected by the uncertain economic and political environment".

The big three problems are as follows:

• Economic-related Problems

Economic problems persist. Poor people remain. Poverty can hardly be eradicated. Economic crises may be something that cannot be easily eradicated.

Recently, a group of farmers came out and demanded that the authority help them by shoring up the lower rice prices.

• The Colors Problems (Political Problems)

Red and Yellow (Political-Motivated Problems)

These people are making Thailand move backward. So we can solve this problem by waiting until they and their thinking gone from Thailand and insert a real better thinking to the next generation.

• Violence in the deep south of Thailand, namely, in the provinces of Narathiwat, Patani, Songkhla and Yala.

This is a big problem, which may not relate to the two-afore mentioned problem areas. Many people, military officers, mostly civilians, were killed.

How to end the violence?

The simplest answer is to resort to the political means, not the use of force, alone.

Political and Economic Problems

It should be noted that there is a relationship between the two areas: economy and political health. World Bank, for example, has noted that "Thailand’s economic growth has been slowing down because of weak private consumption and investment demand, following the September 2006 coup and subsequent political uncertainty". There are many problems here.

Environmental Problems

The eastern seaboard project has created several environmental problems since its inception twenty years ago.

There are also pollution problems in several big cities like Bangkok and Chaingmai.

Social Problems

Crime

Corruption

Corruption is common in many parts of the world, including in Thailand. It has evolved into many different forms, some are not recognized by existing systems.

Another issue related to corruption is cronyism or favoring one's friends. Cronyism is common in Asia, as it is rooted in their cultural values. Who else would you help, they may argue, if not your friends, relatives, and families?

Unemployment Among Thai Youths

Youths have dreams, ambitions, and energy. However, they have been affected by the economic problems, There are not enough job opportunities for them.

Racism

Many Burmese and tourists are targeted by authorities or used to blame problems on. From island gang rapes and murders to collecting extra revenue and overcharging tourists as well as targeting them for various obscure reasons.