Thailand

Some 20 groups called the rally at Bangkok's Democracy Monument this weekend under the name "Mob Fest.”

The arrival of the first Chinese tourists in Thailand under the Special Tourist Visa program is a good sign for the Thai economy.

Gathering at the Democracy Monument, protesters then marched on Government House, where the prime minister’s offices are located.

For months, protesters in Thailand have called for reforms. This weekend as many as 100,000 protesters descended on Bangkok.

The move comes at a time when key Thai institutions, including the military and monarchy, are under close public scrutiny.

The throne’s sacred aura has faded under the reign of the vain and unstable King Vajiralongkorn.

The student-led protest movement has declared three core demands: holding new elections, amending the constitution, and ending the intimidation of critics of the government.

The movement of extremists and illicit goods through maritime transit routes may be facilitating Thailand’s insurgency in the deep south.

Student protesters aired grievances normally expressed in whispers in remarkably direct language.

The government cracked down on Friday with the arrests of some high-profile members of the pro-democracy movement. 

"This is a David vs. Goliath case that will redefine access to justice for the victims of corporate abuse in Southeast Asia and beyond,” one expert said.