ABSTRACT
The freedom and independency of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and civil society organisations (CSOs) to work highly depends on the political situation. During a democratic transition, NGOs and CSOs have a better opportunity to run their activities. Specific contexts of socio-economic and political situations in a country inexorably influence their work, expression and demand. During democratic periods, NGOs and CSOs enjoy freedom of expression. People’s centres, human rights and democratic movements are notably pursued. Contrarily, they have limited freedom of expression during a dictatorship period. Their space for action is restricted by law and various state apparatus, especially the space for those who work on human rights, people’s empowerment, democratic campaigns and sustainable natural resources management issues. In 2012, Thailand was ranked by the World Bank as a middle-income country just two years before the coup of 2014. International support for Thai NGOs and CSOs has since steadily declined. It has become difficult for them to undertake their activities and hire staff because of the lack of international support, particularly financial.
