ABC Foreign Correspondent video report on Thailand, 13 April 2010

Wikileaks release August 22, 2010

Summary

This April 2010 video report was prepared by the Australian Broadcasting Commission or ABC. It covers Thailand's most taboo topic, the King of Thailand and his successor Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn. The video was met with outrage from the Royal Thai Embassy in Australia, who cited national security concerns Bangkokpost article after it aired on the state-funded TV station. This video is not available on the ABC NEWS website for viewing outside of Australia (i.e in Thailand).

The documentary covers from different angles the public perception of the monarchy, its role in Thailand, and its relation to Thai citizens. Past and present events are examined in order to shed light on the role and function of the monarchy within Thai society, as well as what might happen when King Bhumibol Adulyadej dies. Particular focus is given to how the government of Thailand handles dissent among its citizens and the fine line that people need to walk when openly criticizing the government or monarchy.