Police Clash with IMF-World Bank Protesters in Bangkok
Thai police were probably afraid that no journalists would turn up to cover the protests against the IMF-World Bank meetings, so on Thursday they beat up the anti-IMF-World Bank protesters in Bangkok instead. Now, journalists have turned up in droves. It brings to mind the Thai saying: “Stupid, but hardworking.” What followed was a barrage […]
Thai police allegedly beat anti-IMF-World Bank protesters in Bangkok on Thursday, apparently hoping to avoid a lack of media attention. Journalists soon arrived in large numbers. Online reactions were swift, with critics questioning whether poor rural protesters truly understand the IMF, suggesting they might be paid by foreign anti-globalization groups or seeking to embarrass the Anutin Charnvirakul government. One Facebook user, JRT Desk, wagered 300 baht that half the demonstrators do not know what IMF stands for, shortly after news of the scuffle—resulting in minor injuries—went viral. Another user, 'Follow Me', urged protesters to consider Thailand’s reputation rather than merely seeking the satisfaction of protest. Aey Kittipongse Yenphosri claimed the demonstrators aim to discredit the government whenever an international meeting is held in Thailand. The exchange highlights a deep divide in empathy, with views on the IMF and World Bank strongly linked to socioeconomic class and ideology. While some Thais feel disadvantaged by such policies, others remain unaffected, and foreign businesses often benefit from the resulting neoliberal reforms. The piece also cites the Pak Moon Dam project, where World Bank‑backed hydroelectric development displaced villagers, destroyed fisheries, and forced many to migrate to cities for low‑wage work, leaving children behind as virtual orphans. Regarding the IMF, the article notes potential unintended effects on Thai tertiary education, though the text cuts off.
