A progressive victory in Thailand’s 2023 general election

Abstract

The result of Thailand’s general election on 14 May 2023 provides evidence that a watershed shift in public support has taken place. The surprise victory of the progressive Move Forward Party was a more significant liberal breakthrough than any seen in Southeast Asia since the 1990s. Yet the party and its leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, are engaged in difficult coalition negotiations that will last until July, and it is unclear whether Pita will become prime minister. If Move Forward is able to form a government, it will experience turbulence in the years ahead.