Key risks & Key takeaways 

Political instability has routinely been a feature of Thai culture and security context. Deep political and social divisions have long impacted Thailand. The central fault line exists between the establishment of conservative institutions and the increase of progressive political parties, which has represented mainstream politics for thirty years, In turn, this has led to cycles of democracy, coup, and elections.

However, Thailand continues to struggle to maintain long-term political stability. In 2023, the country held its second general election since the 2014 military coup. Opposition parties substantially won the majority of parliamentary seats in the House of Representatives; however, were not able to secure victory and form a coalition to rule under MFP, primarily as the military-appointed Senate refused to support the main coalition party nomination for prime minister.

In the 14 May general elections, the Move Forward Party (MFP) emerged as the winner, securing the largest share of seats, nationally, however, the MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat, along with coalition parties couldn’t secure a majority in the parliament in two attempts due to opposition from the senate, as the conservative parties and majority of the military appointed senators made it clear that they would not support Pita, especially if the party persisted in its commitment to amend Thailand's lese-majesty law (Article 112 also known as the royal insult law), which carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years. The Pheu Thai Party with a history of political protests, which came second in the national vote, withdrew from the coalition partnership, and PT along with other coalition partners formed its own government. 

The supporter base for the MFP represents a change from traditional political supporters in Thailand that vote along community lines, the MFP is progressive, young, and has a reforming agenda. In the past, they have challenged authorities by staging large active street demonstrations and escalating political violence when their political leaders were removed or jailed. Visitors are advised to avoid talking about any political situation verbally or through electronic mediums.

The threat of international terrorism in Thailand applies more to Bangkok than to other locations across the country. Although Thailand has not experienced attacks by such terrorist groups since 2012, the country remains an attractive staging ground for bombings within South-East Asia. Transnational terrorism is a potential risk, particularly in the South. In Southern Thailand, a long-standing insurgency remains active in the provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and the southern districts of Songkhla. Visitors are not permitted to travel to these provinces without clearing the itinerary with the Regional Security Manager in advance. The security threat in areas bordering Cambodia, specifically access to the ancient temple of Preah Vihear, remains very low. Raids by irregular forces along the border with Myanmar continue to pose periodic security threats.

Following the bombing of the Erawan Shrine in downtown Bangkok in August 2015, Thai authorities increased security measures in Bangkok and other main cities. In July 2019 several small, improvised devices were detonated in different locations in Bangkok. The design and placement of these devices suggested that the intent was not to cause mass casualties but rather to deliver a warning. No group has claimed responsibility. Since 2014, there has been improved security in commercial areas and terrorism hotspots. However, since the transition to civilian government in July 2019, there has been an increase in high-profile attacks, which were allegedly carried out by BRN, the most active insurgency group.

Whilst Thailand enjoys a relatively low overall crime rate, incidents do occur. Despite heightened media scrutiny of crime against foreign nationals in Thailand, most criminal activity against foreigners is limited to non-confrontational street crimes relating to tourism. Most reported criminal activity is street crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, jewelry, tourist fraud (gems, ivory, souvenir shopping, taxi scams), and credit card cloning or theft. Petty and opportunistic crime can affect Bangkok’s busy tourist areas, though incidents are typically nonviolent. Incidents of organized crime occasionally affect foreigner-frequented areas. There are recent examples of gun-related crimes and attacks.

Nevertheless, in general, Thailand has a high rate of violent crime, including murder and gun-related violence. Violent crime is rare, though organized crime gangs occasionally exchange gunfire in public areas, typically in Pattaya but sometimes in Bangkok also. There are signs that Balkans-based gangs are becoming increasingly active as well. At the same time, there has also been an influx of international criminals from West Africa, engaging mainly in drug trafficking, diamond smuggling, document forgery, and fraud. Ethnic Chinese organized criminal gangs (triads), some with connections in Hong Kong and Taiwan, are also present in Thailand. They have been active in the Cambodian border area, as well as in Bangkok and Phuket.

There have been recent reports of food and drinks being spiked in bars and clubs and subsequent sexual assaults and/or robberies. Do not accept drinks from strangers and do not leave drinks unattended. Drink spiking is much less likely to affect women in Thailand. Men, particularly white men, are sometimes targeted for robbery, extortion, or even murder linked to the country’s rampant sex worker industry. Men might be drugged and robbed in bars or hotels. Bangkok's red-light district areas, such as Patpong in Silom district and Nana Plaza on Sukhumvit Soi 4, are also known for petty and opportunistic crime, as well as sex-related scams. Child exploitation and human trafficking are widespread issues in Thailand. Visitors are reminded of their commitment as employees and related personnel of CARE for the Prevention of Sexual Harassment, Exploitation, and Abuse (PSHEA). Soliciting sex workers is strictly forbidden. 

There are also occasional instances of assault by taxi drivers (or criminals posing as taxi drivers) that have been reported – ensure you take an official taxi from the airport kiosk, sit in the back of the taxi, and keep aware of your surroundings as you travel. Female foreign nationals have also reported sexual assaults and intimidation by taxi drivers. Keep away from Tuk Tuk taxis (which are more for tourists – but fun) and motorcycles (if you are not wearing a helmet). Sometimes Tuk Tuk drivers may offer you drugs or take you to several tourist destinations for a low price – in both instances do not trust them. Penalties for possession of narcotics are extremely severe in Thailand and may include the death penalty, particularly for smuggling drugs into the country. If you do find yourself stopped by the Police, cooperate politely and respectfully. Most interactions with the police will require some form of fine being paid. Call the RSM when possible.

Office address: 191/86, 10th floor, CTI Tower,  Ratchadapisek Road, Klongtoey, Bangkok. 

Flight: Before traveling to Thailand, forward a copy of your confirmed flight itinerary, via email, to care@tripsync.worldaware.com. Consider downloading their app for travel advice. 

Local transport: Official yellow and green/red taxis are available in Bangkok and at the airport. Overcharging is common against foreigners. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a price before setting off. Sukhumvit MRT and the Asoke Metro are the closest stations to the office and local hotels. 

Behavior: Do not talk about Thai politics or criticize the monarchy - if brought up in conversation politely excuse yourself. Stand for the national anthem in public or if others are (08:00 & 17:00)

Mannerisms: Avoid using the following gestures or habits, as they are deemed offensive or insulting::
Touching and passing things over someone's head.
Do not point at someone with your index finger.
Using your feet to point at someone.
Do not show someone the bottom of your feet.
Use your left hand to receive and give things to someone.

Formal meetings: Always use the honorific titles of "Khun" or "Kru" before the first name of a high-ranking male or female until the host indicates that using first names is appropriate. 

Clothing Attire: Business attire is generally semi-formal. For men, conservative business suits are appropriate. For women, conservative dresses, or business suits with knee-length skirts. 

Food & drink: Avoid Street vendors and unregulated food establishments. Consider eating at hotels and official restaurants. Drink only bottled water and consider not having ice. If drinking alcohol, never accept drinks from a stranger, and do not leave your drink unattended.

Payments: Major credit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels. Try and have some cash withdrawn from the airport or a hotel ATM. Some places won't accept card payments under a certain amount. If paying with a credit card, never let the card out of your sight.  

Shopping: It is normal to barter on the prices of items in some shops and on the street (not food/drink).