ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Olivia Alice Lola Pryde Belshaw]

Related article: https://time.com/6228051/thailand-lgbtq-family-marriage-equality/

The article ‘What Thailand’s Push for Marriage Equality Means for One Family’ details the experience and inequalities of an LGBTQ+ family living in Thailand, and the restrictions on their existence as a family unit as imposed under Thai law as well as the wider impact these restrictions have upon the queer community.
The article begins by introducing the family, their background and their status under law in Thailand where their life as a couple and as parents together is not legally recognised.
The article then details the potential changes in legislation alongside the changes in attitude of lawmakers however contrasts it with the strict monastic Thai Senate, which have the final say in what laws are passed.
The article has an optimistic view on the future of the rights of the LGBTQ+ in Thailand whilst also highlighting the sectors in which the community are excluded and discriminated against. Through using the everyday lived experiences of the family, the article is able to bring light and attention to the experiences of LGBTQ+ people showing both the positive and negative aspects of life as well as spotlighting the groups advocating for change.
The article was particularly interesting to myself as a member of the LGBTQ+ community as it raised points I was not aware of, most startlingly that same sex marriage is only legal in one country in Asia yet there are still further restrictions on couples under this. By centring on the experiences of one family, the article pushed inequality detailed to the forefront however it importantly showed that despite legal and societal restrictions, families such as this are still living their lives to the fullest.

[Olivia Alice Lola Pryde Belshaw]

This was such an interesting summary to read Cristina! I was aware of the importance of appearance to south asian women, but I did not know the extent to which this is practiced, nor was I aware of the dangers that certain procedures can cause. The mention of social media and the comparisons to others is definitely a major contribution to this desire to fit a beauty standard, and I admire your drive to celebrate natural beauty as it is truly important in our age as we are so surrounded by media and the ideas of what we ‘should’ look like.

[Rosie Drury]

Samut Prakan school on climate change front line
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2598648/samut-prakan-school-on-climate-change-front-line
This article highlights the impact of climate change on Thailand by using the village of Ban Khun Samut Chin as an example depicting the physical and societal impacts. The effect of climate change is conveyed through interviews with residents, such as with Jiranan Chorsakul, an 11-year-old and one of the last four students at the school, commenting “I used to have many friends, around 20 or 21 classmates when I started kindergarten,” highlighting how rapidly people have left the area due to the environmental dangers. The urgency of the situation is further conveyed when the village head describes how in the past 60 years two square km of land was lost to the sea and the village was almost completely overcome. The article further emphasises the impact of climate change on coastal communities, stating 17% of Thailand’s total population lives on the coast in areas that will likely be affected by climate change, indicating how important the problem of climate change is in Thailand.
The article then explains why the village of Ban Khun Samut Chin experienced such rapid erosion of its coast. This was caused by poor environmental management alongside more powerful storm surges due to climate change. The mangroves which used to act as a barrier to these storm surges were deforested and replaced by prawn farms removing a natural defence against erosion, dams upstream of the Chao Phraya River that flows near the village caused decreasing deposition of sediments, alongside as the over-exploitation of groundwater, all contributed to the high rate of coastal erosion. Whilst the village, aided by Chulalongkorn University, has constructed bamboo and concrete pillars and replanted mangroves, this may not be enough to save the village. Currently, the village does not intend to relocate further inland and so must defend against rising sea levels and coastal erosion. The village is trying to use eco-tourism with a homestay programme to raise money and increase education about climate change as well as educating the local children on local ecology, with the hope they may be tour guides in the future.
This article thus relates to living and teaching in Thailand as it raises the importance of educating the students on topics related to climate change as well as encouraging me to act in a more environmentally conscious way. This will affect how I travel through Thailand and my behaviour, alongside hopefully passing along some of these values and behaviours to the students.

[Rosie Drury]

Hi Kinga, your summary was very interesting, especially the differentiation between academic shock and social shock. I never thought to separate different causes of culture shock, perhaps categorising the experiences may help overcome culture shock by tackling the categories one by one rather than trying to take it on all at once? Your point about the students also experiencing a degree of culture shock due to the new situations caused by being taught by foreign teachers was something I had not considered before but is certainly important and will be something I consider whilst I am teaching.

[Kasey Lyons]

Everything You Need to Know About Tattoos in Thailand

The topic I chose to research is all about tattoo etiquette in Thailand, specifically when visiting temples and holy sites around the country. I have many tattoos, and even though I love them, it is important to me to follow the utmost and respectful etiquette for the new culture I’ll be living in. The article I chose details what should be covered and why, as well as how to cover them and even discusses traditional, spiritual tattoos in Thailand. I am a firm believer that everyone deserves to express themselves in the best way that they see fit, but I also understand that it is important to follow all kinds of respectable etiquette, especially if you are someone who is a quest or will be visiting.

[Kasey Lyons]

I really appreciated the specifics of the topic that you chose to research. There are so many little details that people overlook when visiting an area, but many of those details are crucial to integrate into a new life when you decide to live in a different country. The topic of how work industries function and the moral codes of how companies and industries follow for taking care (or not taking care) of the employees is an extremely crucial discussion regardless of where you are moving to or where you come from. Exploitation can be found everywhere, and sometimes its difficult to point out and see, but keeping an open discussion of the topic and learning more about how to find it and prevent in for yourself is so important.

[Glenn McKerracher]

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jun/16/thailand-in-limbo-as-move-forwards-electoral-impetus-hits-political-roadblocks

Thailand in limbo as Move Forward’s electoral impetus hits political roadblocks.
Rebecca Ratcliffe.
The Guardian

The article titled “Thailand in Limbo as Move Forward’s Electoral Impetus Hits Political Roadblocks” discusses the current political challenges faced by Thailand as it strives to move towards a more democratic system. The ruling party, Move Forward, had promised electoral reforms and greater citizen participation in government, but its efforts have been hindered by various obstacles. One major hurdle is the Constitutional Court’s decision to annul proposed changes to the electoral system, which were seen as crucial for fair representation. This setback has led to widespread frustration and disillusionment among the public, who had hoped for progress towards a more inclusive democracy.

Another major issue highlighted in the article is the deep-rooted influence of the military in Thai politics. Despite the promises of reform, the military still holds significant power and continues to interfere in the political process. The military-backed establishment has obstructed efforts to amend the constitution, leading to a deadlock in achieving meaningful democratic changes. This has sparked protests and calls for accountability, as citizens demand a government that truly represents their interests and ensures transparency and fairness in the electoral system

[Glenn McKerracher]

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jun/16/thailand-in-limbo-as-move-forwards-electoral-impetus-hits-political-roadblocks

Thailand in limbo as Move Forward’s electoral impetus hits political roadblocks
Rebecca Ratcliffe
The Guardian

The article titled “Thailand in Limbo as Move Forward’s Electoral Impetus Hits Political Roadblocks” discusses the current political challenges faced by Thailand as it strives to move towards a more democratic system. The ruling party, Move Forward, had promised electoral reforms and greater citizen participation in government, but its efforts have been hindered by various obstacles. One major hurdle is the Constitutional Court’s decision to annul proposed changes to the electoral system, which were seen as crucial for fair representation. This setback has led to widespread frustration and disillusionment among the public, who had hoped for progress towards a more inclusive democracy.

Another major issue highlighted in the article is the deep-rooted influence of the military in Thai politics. Despite the promises of reform, the military still holds significant power and continues to interfere in the political process. The military-backed establishment has obstructed efforts to amend the constitution, leading to a deadlock in achieving meaningful democratic changes. This has sparked protests and calls for accountability, as citizens demand a government that truly represents their interests and ensures transparency and fairness in the electoral system

[Taqwa Khamis Al Dughaishi]

The article: https://www.thaiembassy.at/en/news/articles-on-thailand/item/916-art-of-the-loom-the-future-of-sustainable-fashion.html

The environmental effects of fast fashion are examined in this article, with a focus on how much clothing is consumed. It draws attention to a survey that found people use their clothes an average of seven times before throwing them away. Carbon emissions and wastewater pollution are also highlighted as issues that the fashion industry contributes to. This is especially true given the growing use of synthetic materials, which degrade into microplastics. The essay, however, highlights the ecological nature of traditional Thai fabrics like silk and cotton. These materials can be broken down naturally and won’t add to the problem of microplastic contamination.
This essay is helpful for anyone visiting or living in Thailand since it explains the environmental costs of fast fashion and makes the case for patronising local designers that work with traditional fabrics. Individuals can help sustain local economies and cultural traditions by wearing garments crafted from traditional Thai handloom materials. The article also highlights how Thailand’s sustainable fashion business contributes to the country’s efforts to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, such as those to eradicate poverty, promote gender equality, ensure access to decent work for all, and promote sustainable patterns of consumption and production.
In a nutshell, this piece of writing serves as a gentle reminder of the need to make sustainable and socially conscious clothing choices and of the potential of traditional Thai textiles to provide such a choice for people in Thailand and beyond.
 

[Taqwa Khamis Al Dughaishi]

The article: https://www.thaiembassy.at/en/news/articles-on-thailand/item/916-art-of-the-loom-the-future-of-sustainable-fashion.html

The environmental effects of fast fashion are examined in this article, with a focus on how much clothing is consumed. It draws attention to a survey that found people use their clothes an average of seven times before throwing them away. Carbon emissions and wastewater pollution are also highlighted as issues that the fashion industry contributes to. This is especially true given the growing use of synthetic materials, which degrade into microplastics. The essay, however, highlights the ecological nature of traditional Thai fabrics like silk and cotton. These materials can be broken down naturally and won’t add to the problem of microplastic contamination.

This essay is helpful for anyone visiting or living in Thailand since it explains the environmental costs of fast fashion and makes the case for patronising local designers that work with traditional fabrics. Individuals can help sustain local economies and cultural traditions by wearing garments crafted from traditional Thai handloom materials. The article also highlights how Thailand’s sustainable fashion business contributes to the country’s efforts to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, such as those to eradicate poverty, promote gender equality, ensure access to decent work for all, and promote sustainable patterns of consumption and production.

In a nutshell, this piece of writing serves as a gentle reminder of the need to make sustainable and socially conscious clothing choices and of the potential of traditional Thai textiles to provide such a choice for people in Thailand and beyond.

[Taqwa Khamis Al Dughaishi]

Hi Glenn,

Thank you for shedding light on the current political situation in Thailand in your article titled “Thailand in Limbo as Move Forward’s Electoral Impetus Hits Political Roadblocks.” The challenges faced by the ruling party, Move Forward, in implementing electoral reforms and achieving greater citizen participation are indeed concerning.

The annulment of proposed changes to the electoral system by the Constitutional Court is a significant setback for those hoping for fair representation and progress towards a more inclusive democracy. This decision has understandably led to frustration and disillusionment among the public, who were eagerly anticipating positive changes.

Another critical issue highlighted in your article is the lingering influence of the military in Thai politics. Despite promises of reform, the military’s hold on power and interference in the political process continue to hinder efforts to amend the constitution and achieve meaningful democratic changes. The resulting deadlock has sparked protests and calls for accountability, as citizens yearn for a government that genuinely represents their interests and ensures transparency and fairness in the electoral system.

The situation in Thailand serves as a reminder of the complex challenges that arise when striving for democratic reforms, particularly in countries with deep-rooted political structures. It underscores the need for continued dialogue, engagement, and efforts to address the concerns of the public. Achieving a truly inclusive democracy requires overcoming these roadblocks and finding viable solutions that respect the rights and aspirations of the Thai people.

Thank you for your informative article, which raises awareness about the ongoing political developments in Thailand.

Cheers,
Taqwa

[Emily Hare]

MUAY THAI – https://asia.yokkao.com/pages/what-is-muay-thai

Muay Thai came about in the 20th century, and is the national sport of Thailand. It evolved from elements of Muay Boran, the traditional Thai martial arts, which dates back to military use in the 13th Century around the time of the Sukhothai. Muay Thai is infamously different from regular boxing due to the use of the 8 limbs in the sport, as well as the traditional elements such as the Wai Kru Ram Muay, the Mongkon, and Saram music (referring to pre-fight dance ritual and head dress respectively). The martial art was born out of the need for soldiers to defend their kingdom, and they were trained in armed and unarmed combat. There is a legendary tale of Nai Khanom Tom, who defeated 9 Burmese fighters one after another during his imprisonment after the siege of Sukothai. Today, this represents Muay Thai day 17th March. The sport has been refined today including some practises from traditional boxing, and eliminating some of the deadly and dangerous movements from Muay Boran. Generally the attacking techniques consist of punches, elbow strikes, knee strikes, kicks, push kicks and clinches. Defence techniques consist of blocks, lean backs, deflections, leg catches and dodges.
Muay Thai is a sport of hard work, and dedication. Fighters will compete every month, train 6 days a week, twice a day. Most fighters start at the age of 4. The secret is in the repetition and natural movement of the sequences, and the reading of your opponent, as actually the movements once broken down can be rather simple. Although Muay Thai is a full-contact sport, it is also very much a mental sport, a fighter must also grow and build their mental toughness to be successful. All faith is put into their teachers unquestionably – even those at the highest level – they hold a great deal of respect for their ‘Kru’.
The Wai Kru Ram Muay translates to “paying respect to teacher” and “classical dance of boxing”. Fighters begin by walking inside the ring in an anti-clockwise direction along the ropes, pausing at each corner with a prayer to seek protection during the fight. They then proceed to the centre to perform the “Wai Khru” portion which involves a kneel, bow and the “Wai”, done three times to pay tribute to their parents, teachers and Buddha.
In conclusion, Muay Thai is a sport evolved from a place of need, protection, and survival. The roots of the sport have not been forgotten, and it presents itself as one of the greatest martial arts, with a wider range of movement, and use of limbs than any other boxing sport. Respect, dedication, and mental strength are absolutlely cruital components to this sport – without which no fighter would reach success.

• This reply was modified 2 years, 10 months ago by Emily Hare.
• This reply was modified 2 years, 10 months ago by Emily Hare.

[Emily Hare]

Hi Olivia,

Great subject you chose to write about, especially considering there is a rather large LGBTQ+ group in Thailand, its a shame to hear same sex marriages are not recognised. However, hopefully this will change with the rapid change and development of Thailand. It’s reassuring to hear that families are still living their lives to the fullest, and this isn’t having a detrimental impact.

[Emily Hare]

MUAY THAI – https://asia.yokkao.com/pages/what-is-muay-thai

Muay Thai came about in the 20th century, and is the national sport of Thailand. It evolved from elements of Muay Boran, the traditional Thai martial arts, which dates back to military use in the 13th Century around the time of the Sukhothai. Muay Thai is infamously different from regular boxing due to the use of the 8 limbs in the sport, as well as the traditional elements such as the Wai Kru Ram Muay, the Mongkon, and Saram music (referring to pre-fight dance ritual and head dress respectively). The martial art was born out of the need for soldiers to defend their kingdom, and they were trained in armed and unarmed combat. There is a legendary tale of Nai Khanom Tom, who defeated 9 Burmese fighters one after another during his imprisonment after the siege of Sukothai. Today, this represents Muay Thai day 17th March. The sport has been refined today including some practises from traditional boxing, and eliminating some of the deadly and dangerous movements from Muay Boran. Generally the attacking techniques consist of punches, elbow strikes, knee strikes, kicks, push kicks and clinches. Defence techniques consist of blocks, lean backs, deflections, leg catches and dodges.
Muay Thai is a sport of hard work, and dedication. Fighters will compete every month, train 6 days a week, twice a day. Most fighters start at the age of 4. The secret is in the repetition and natural movement of the sequences, and the reading of your opponent, as actually the movements once broken down can be rather simple. Although Muay Thai is a full-contact sport, it is also very much a mental sport, a fighter must also grow and build their mental toughness to be successful. All faith is put into their teachers unquestionably – even those at the highest level – they hold a great deal of respect for their ‘Kru’.
The Wai Kru Ram Muay translates to “paying respect to teacher” and “classical dance of boxing”. Fighters begin by walking inside the ring in an anti-clockwise direction along the ropes, pausing at each corner with a prayer to seek protection during the fight. They then proceed to the centre to perform the “Wai Khru” portion which involves a kneel, bow and the “Wai”, done three times to pay tribute to their parents, teachers and Buddha.
In conclusion, Muay Thai is a sport evolved from a place of need, protection, and survival. The roots of the sport have not been forgotten, and it presents itself as one of the greatest martial arts, with a wider range of movement, and use of limbs than any other boxing sport. Respect, dedication, and mental strength are absolutely cruitial components to this sport – without which no fighter would reach success

[Kiri Ferris]

Article: Keeping poor kids at school
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2594709/keeping-poor-kids-at-school

This article details the importance of providing implementations to support educational opportunities of children from underprivileged backgrounds through the story of Anirut Thongdech, or Saming, who was forced to leave school due to his parents’ inability to afford his education. The article explains that this has become a problem in Thai society that has only worsened since the covid-19 pandemic. For Saming’s family, who were living hand-to-mouth and with no place to live, refuge was found as the abbot of Wat Trangkhapum Putthawat, a temple in Trang province’s Kantang district, let the family reside at the temple. With the help of the director of the school near this temple, Saming was then offered the opportunity to become a student again. This article points out that this is an unfortunately familiar case within Thailand, as the covid-19 pandemic caused lots of unemployment. This has resulted in a much increased drop-out rate, and out of 7 million students within schools, over 800,000 are from extremely poor families, making them high risk of dropping out. Alongside this, research by the Equitable Education Fund (EEF) shows that poor families are seen to be excluded from education due to the costs associated with application and admission fees on top of the costs of uniform and stationery. However, the article highlights that there are initiatives in place to provide support for families like Saming’s, the EEF encourages stipends such as the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT), which provides 3000 baht per student, per year. The managing director of EEF has reported that school regulations need to become less restrictive and decentralised to prevent poor students from dropping out. To encourage this, the EEF has suggested three policies to aim for a zero dropout rate. These include universal education; providing free education and more leniency in the system, extending the eligibility and amount of the CCT, as well as decentralisation whereby local administrations can share their problems and mutual goals to improve the lives of underprivileged students.

[Author]

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