The 2006 Coup in Thailand: Lessons for Emerging Democracies

On September 19, 2006, Thailand experienced its eighteenth military coup since 1932 unseating a democratically elected government. This latest coup was fifteen years after the last one and a big step backward from the accomplishments made with the adoption of the 1997 constitution that first established constitutional supremacy and the rule of law in Thailand. In studying the coup, we can gain insight into some of the challenges present as democracies struggle to emerge. These insights can help to develop techniques and policies to guide the United States participation and sometimes facilitation in the process. Additionally covered is the current international debate on the existence on a right to democratic governance within the body of international law. The establishment of this right in international law is foundational to the legitimacy of pro-democracy intervention operations sometimes referred to as regime change.