Issue and Opponent: Sirivannavari is King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s daughter and in October 2020, protesters said taxpayer’s money was wasted on the international promotion of her fashion brand, called Sirivannavari Bangkok. The princess is a fashion designer and has several shops at malls and shopping arcades in Bangkok selling her luxury goods. There were protests since the middle of the year to reform the country’s monarchy, one of the wealthiest in the world and protected from criticism by royal defamation laws. The protesters are also demanding a new constitution and the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha, who has refused to step down. The monarchy has long been considered an untouchable institution, revered by a large part of the population and protected by a lese majeste law that mandates a three-to-15-year prison term for anyone found guilty of defaming the monarch and his immediate family.
Dilemma Action: Dressed in provocative outfits and Halloween costumes, Thai pro-democracy protesters strutted down a red carpet “People’s Runway” in a Bangkok business district as they increasingly challenge the rich and powerful royal family. This demonstration took place the “same day as fashion designer and Thai Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana unveiled her new winter collection in the capital. In a satirical take on the princess’ ‘French Flair Runway’ show, protesters walked on Silom Road in their collection of dresses while chanting pro-democracy slogans. Artwork and posters depicting the new movement lined the streets. Ahead of the rally, organizers had announced the gathering plan on social media. They also cited an earlier local media report which allegedly detailed Thailand’s national budget Bill for 2020 and allocations worth more than 29 billion baht (US$929 million) set aside for the monarchy. These included a budget of 13 million baht for the Department of International Trade Promotion to exhibit products of the Sirivannavari brand in foreign countries. It is highly illegal and risky to demonstrate or speak out against the government; it can result in extensive jail time and violent reactions by police.
Outcome: Police arrested dozens of activists and protest organizers recently, forcing the movement to adopt a more leaderless structure through social media and flash mob tactics. Thai royalists held counter-demonstrations, but so far they lacked the numbers and enthusiasm of the pro-democracy activists.