Thailand's political landscape is currently marked by significant turmoil that has led to its classification as the 'Asian Patient', a stark contrast to its previous reputation as the 'Asian Tiger'. Historically, Thailand rapidly industrialized in Southeast Asia but now faces slowing growth and increasing inequality. Since the 1932 constitutional revolution, the country has been plagued by numerous military coups and attempts that have disrupted political stability. The ruling elite, composed of military and bureaucratic factions, has often resorted to military interventions to restore order whenever the monarchy or social stability appears threatened.

The rise of competing political factions, especially the Thaksin Shinawatra supporters and the opposing royalist elite, has further complicated the situation. Thaksin, who became Prime Minister in 2001, enacted populist policies aimed at reducing inequality, garnering significant support from rural areas, which intensified the existing divides. His ousting through a coup during an overseas trip in 2006 illustrated the deep-seated conflict between rural-based red shirts and urban yellow shirts, a divide that continues to influence Thai politics today.

Following the military coup in 2014, Thailand has not seen another military takeover; instead, a phenomenon termed 'judicial coup' has emerged, with the conservative factions leveraging independent institutions like the Constitutional Court to eliminate political opponents. The 2014 constitution, drafted under military rule, further consolidates power within the upper house, which is predominantly composed of conservatives, allowing them to exert control over independent bodies. This ongoing struggle reflects the persistent conflict between conservative forces and those advocating for a more democratic political environment in Thailand.