Commentary / Japan Jan 15, 2018
A Sino-Japanese tug of war taking place in Thailand
Thailand has emerged as a critical Southeast Asian theater in the Japan-China rivalry.
Pavin Chachavalpongpun
For Pavin Chachavalpongpun's latest contributions to The Japan Times, see below:
Commentary / Japan Dec 19, 2017
Japan-Thailand ties in a new era of uncertainty
Thailand's changing political landscape raises several important questions for bilateral relations.
Commentary / World Oct 11, 2017
Saying a final goodbye to King Bhumibol
King Bhumibol successfully transformed the declining monarchy into the most important political institution in Thailand.
Commentary / Japan Sep 26, 2017
Japan can do more for the Rohingya
The intention was to rebuild a peaceful political society in Myanmar, but the Rohingya have been left out.
Commentary / World Sep 9, 2017
A very wealthy monarch grows wealthier
By gaining full control over the Crown Property Bureau, King Vajiralongkorn has taken another step to bolster his authority.
Commentary / World Aug 3, 2017
Trial of Yingluck sparks deeper crisis for Thailand
The outcome of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra's trial will change Thailand's political trajectory.
Commentary / World Jul 2, 2017
Incident in Germany raises issues over Thai king's security
An air gun attack on King Vajiralongkorn in Germany last month raises questions about the adequacy of the security measures surrounding the Thai monarch.
Commentary / World Jun 2, 2017
Dhaveevatthana prison: hell on Earth in Thailand
A prison on the grounds of Dhaveevatthana Palace in Bangkok has become a symbol of cruelty under the reign of Thai King Vajiralongkorn.
Commentary / World May 12, 2017
Land of fear, under Vajiralongkorn
Loathed by the public, Thailand's King Vajiralongkorn is seeking to win over his subjects not by reverence, but fear.
Commentary / World Apr 10, 2017
Two peas in a pod: Duterte in Bangkok
The Thai junta and the fiery Philippine president appear to have found a convergence of interests.