Thailand’s new prime minister: A fresh face with a cinematic legacy
A new chapter in Thai politics
Thailand has ushered in a new era with the election of Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the country’s youngest and second female prime minister. Her ascent to power comes just days after a Constitutional Court ruling ousted her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin. Shinawatra’s political journey is deeply intertwined with her family’s legacy, as she becomes the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold the top political post, following her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, and her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra, both of whom were removed by military coups in 2006 and 2014, respectively.
Political landscape and challenges
The Pheu Thai Party, led by Shinawatra, rose to power after the pro-democracy Move Forward Party dominated the May 2023 general election but was subsequently blocked by establishment forces from forming a government. The same Constitutional Court that ousted Thavisin also disbanded the Move Forward Party earlier this month, banning its leaders from holding political office for a decade.
While Shinawatra’s appointment as prime minister awaits royal endorsement, she has remained tight-lipped about her policies and cabinet choices, which will also require separate royal approval. For millions of low-paid Thai citizens, the new PM’s stance on Thavisin’s proposal to distribute THB10,000 ($280) through a digital wallet scheme is a top priority. Additionally, revitalizing the country’s tourism-dependent economy is crucial.
A cinematic heritage
Shinawatra’s connection to the film industry runs deep, as she is the daughter and granddaughter of cinema operators. Her Pheu Thai Party has emphasized the importance of enhancing Thailand’s “soft power” on the global stage. The previous government proposed the establishment of the Thailand Creative Culture Agency, a cultural support body with a budget of THB7 billion ($200 million) to promote film, TV, Muay Thai boxing, and cuisine. Although this initiative is not expected to materialize until 2025, Shinawatra was appointed to a subcommittee tasked with fast-tracking reforms in the feature film and long-form documentary sectors.
Reforms and incentives
Proposed changes include reducing censorship, creating a body to facilitate location shooting and permits, and expanding the rebate program for inbound productions. Thailand’s current rebate program offers a 15% rebate, with an additional 5% bonus for projects that use significant local components, but it is capped at $2.25 million. Despite this low subsidy ceiling, Thailand has recently attracted notable productions such as the “Alien” series, Season 3 of “The White Lotus,” and parts of “Jurassic World 4.”
The rise of Thai entertainment
The growing popularity of the “Boys Love” (BL) genre of TV series and the regional success of the hit film “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” have contributed to the positive momentum of Thai-produced entertainment. This surge in popularity highlights the potential for Thailand’s film and TV industries to thrive under supportive policies.
Navigating political complexities
Shinawatra’s political journey is not without its challenges. Her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, has returned to Thailand after more than a decade in exile and faces potential legal issues, including a royal insult case. His presence in the country serves as a reminder of the delicate balance Shinawatra must maintain to avoid provoking the establishment.
A hopeful future
As Thailand’s new prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra has the opportunity to shape the country’s future and support its burgeoning film and TV industries. Her family’s cinematic legacy and her party’s commitment to enhancing Thailand’s cultural influence provide a strong foundation for her leadership. With careful navigation of political complexities and a focus on meaningful reforms, Shinawatra can pave the way for a brighter future for Thailand’s entertainment sector and its citizens.
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