Thailand

Politics

Main article: Politics of Thailand

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The king has little direct power under the constitution but is the anointed protector of Thai Buddhism and a symbol of national identity and unity. The present monarch enjoys a great deal of popular respect and moral authority, which has on occasion been used to resolve political crises. The head of government is the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the king from among the members of the lower house of parliament, usually the leader of the party that can organise a majority coalition government.

Related Topics:
Constitution - Head of government - Prime Minister - Parliament - Coalition government

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The bicameral Thai parliament is the National Assembly or Rathasapha - ??????, which consists of a House of Representatives (the Sapha Phuthaen Ratsadon - ??????????????) of 500 seats and a Senate (the Wuthisapha - ???????) of 200 seats. Members of both houses are elected by popular vote. Members of House of Representatives serve four-year terms, while Senators serve six-year terms. The highest judicial body is the Supreme Court or Sandika - ศาลฎีกา, whose judges are appointed by the monarch. Thailand is an active member of the regional Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Related Topics:
Senate - Judicial - Association of Southeast Asian Nations

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