Organizer: ISEAS – Yusof Ishak institute
Type/Location: Virtual
Description:
Thailand’s 2026 general election, scheduled for 8 February 2026 alongside a constitutional referendum, is unfolding against a backdrop of renewed tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border and rising concern over the capture of Thai state and financial institutions by transnational scam and “grey capital” networks. At the heart of the contest is competition among three major parties—Bhumjaithai, Pheu Thai, and the People’s Party—with no single party likely to win an outright majority. At stake is not only the composition of the next government, but also broader questions of reform, and Thailand’s positioning in a changing regional and geopolitical order. This webinar will examine the key issues shaping the campaign, assess how the major political parties are likely to fare, and analyze the potential coalitional configurations that may be produced by Thailand’s triangular political dynamics after the election. It will also explore how civic-tech initiatives are working to support informed citizen decision-making, strengthen public participation, improve civil society communication, and enhance transparency throughout the electoral process.
About the Speakers:
Mathis Lohatepanont is a Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Political Science at the University of Michigan. He specializes in the study of political parties and party systems, especially in Thailand. He is a regular contributor of analysis on contemporary Thai politics to both academic and journalistic outlets.
Thanisara Ruangdej (GG) is the CEO and Co-founder of WeVis, a civic technology group advancing Thailand's participatory democracy through open data. She pioneered Thailand's first tools for data-driven civic monitoring and participation in elections, parliamentary work, and the national budget by improving data accessibility and creating open spaces for public hearings. She also serves in parliamentary advisory roles to advocate for Open Parliament and the right to information.
Registration:
To attend the event virtually, please register here.