The search for order: constitutions and human rights in Thai political history
Date
2001
Authors
Thanet, Aphornsuvan
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Research School of Pacific and Asian Studies, Division of Pacific and Asia History, The Australian National University.
Abstract
In conclusion, it can be seen that the significance of the constitution in Thai political history and government is its function to serve the stability of the regime. In this sense, the Thai constitutions represented realities of power relations more than being the source of political legitimacy. The 1997 Constitution, however, intends to introduce a change from representative democracy to participatory democracy. This can be seen in the establishment of the independent commissions such as the Election Commission, the Administrative Court and the Ombudsman. Peoples power is recognized so that they can recall certain members of Parliament and ministers and propose draft bills to Parliament. Individual rights and liberties are expanded together with communal rights. The principles and practices of checks and balances and the separation of powers figure prominently in the Constitution. The 1997 Constitution therefore makes clear that sovereign power belongs to the people and only the people can legitimately use this power.
Description
Keywords
human rights, democracy, separation of powers, political reform, Thai, political history
Citation
Source
Type
Conference paper
Book Title
Constitutions and Human Rights in a Global Age: an Asia Pacific perspective Symposium (2001 : The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT)
Entity type
Access Statement
Open Access