Saturday, March 20, 2010
In the form of a book review, Joshua Kurlantzick explains why Thailand is on the verge of possible breakup. He explores the basic conflict between the "Reds" and "Yellows," the mass groups of protesters who respectively, basically support and oppose deposed former Premier Thaksin Shinawatra. Kurlantzick also mentions the growing Islamic insurgency in the southern provinces, who are culturally and religion-wise distinct from the rest of the country. The article does well to explain the nuances of the Red-Yellow division, outlining the shortcomings and wrongdoings in both sides. In the end, this deep chasm, based on socio-economic and urban-rural fissures, may prove too much for the nation to survive, Kurlantzick says in a bleak prognosis.