Thai Youth's 'Youthquake' Protests Shift Online Amid COVID-19 Crackdown
The Thai government's response to the COVID-19 symptoms pandemic has sparked a wave of online activism, with youth-led protests shifting from streets to digital platforms. The government's crackdown on dissent, including the arrest of activists and increased online surveillance, has only fueled the 'youthquake' phenomenon.
In February and March 2020, at least 79 flash mobs targeted the regime of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, demonstrating growing political awareness among Thai youth. The protests, dubbed 'youthquake', were reignited by the disappearance of political exile Wanchalerm Satsaksit in Cambodia.
As the pandemic hit, activists moved online. The Student Union of Thailand launched the 'protest from home' campaign, using the hashtag #MobFromHome. Thai users, concerned about Twitter's privacy policy and government surveillance, turned to alternative platforms like Minds. However, the origin of the Minds platform in Thailand remains unclear.
The government has responded by issuing an emergency decree prohibiting public assembly and increasing online surveillance. The Anti-Fake News Center was established to restrict freedom of expression. Danai Ussama was arrested for posting about COVID-19 screening at Suvarnabhumi airport, further fueling protests.
The Thai government's handling of the COVID-19 symptoms pandemic and its crackdown on dissent have led to a surge in online activism, with youth using platforms like Twitter and Minds to express their views. Despite arrests and increased surveillance, the 'youthquake' protests continue, reflecting a growing political awareness among Thai youth.
