BANGKOK, Thailand — A new national poll by Suan Dusit University reveals that a majority of Thai citizens remain disengaged from political protests and largely oppose military coups, viewing them as violations of democratic principles.
According to the survey, titled “Political Protests Through the Eyes of Thai People 2025,” 38.39% of respondents said they have no interest in participating in political rallies. Nearly half (48.16%) cited the potential for violence as the biggest drawback of modern demonstrations, while 48.93% rated the impact of current protests on driving political change as only “moderate.”
The poll also found that 42.50% of respondents reject the idea of a military coup in the current political climate, believing it would violate the democratic system. However, 58.58% said they would expect a government leader to resign if large-scale protests were to occur.
Speaking on the findings, Ms. Pornpan Buathong, President of Suan Dusit Poll, said the survey — conducted online and through field interviews with 1,167 participants nationwide between July 1–4 — indicates that while citizens recognize the right to protest, many remain skeptical of its effectiveness as a genuine tool for change. “Past demonstrations have often brought more harm than benefit,” she noted. “And though coups were once seen as quick fixes during times of crisis, the painful lessons from multiple past incidents have made the public more wary of extra-constitutional power grabs.”
The survey showed that 55.28% see the main strength of protests as promoting civic participation, but those same protests are perceived as risky and unpredictable. Many Thais, it appears, are seeking reforms within the democratic framework rather than dramatic upheavals.
Asst. Prof. Kanyakarn Sathiansukon, a lecturer in Political Science at Suan Dusit University, added that these sentiments were reflected during the recent rally held by the “United People to Defend Sovereignty” group at Victory Monument on June 28. The demonstration, which drew a sizable crowd, was aimed at pressuring the government over its handling of ongoing tensions at the Thai-Cambodian border and criticizing the Prime Minister’s perceived weak stance.
“This was one of the first large-scale protests in several years to attract such numbers,” said Kanyakarn. “It served as a reminder that while public discontent is real, most citizens want to see political resolution through constitutional means — not another coup.”
As Thailand continues to navigate political uncertainty and regional disputes, the poll results suggest a population increasingly wary of unrest and seeking a more stable, participatory path forward.
