| THAI MONARCHY | ||||
| Introduction
The institution of the monarchy in Thailand dates back to more than 700 years. As a result of the revolution of 1932, the status of the monarchy changed from the center of power to the center of loyalty. Currently,Thai people respect the institution of the monarchy as "the highest reliance" when they face a national crisis. For instance, when the conflict between the military government and protesters turned violent in May 1992, His Majesty the King called upon the leaders of both sides to reach a compromise, thus bringing about a peaceful solution to the conflict. In 1997, when Thailand was confronted with the Asian economic crisis , His Majesty gave wise advice to his suffering subjects about living a simple life- an economic principle he called the Sufficiency Economy. This concept has become widespread throughout the country. |
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| King Bhumibol Adulyadej At His coronation in 1950, King Bhumibol Adulyadej pronounced the Oath of Succession to the Throne: “We shall reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese people.” His activities since then have borne out the truth of these words. His moral leadership has proven immensely important and sometimes decisive in a number of national crises since His ascension to the throne. As the upholder of all religions, His Majesty has given equal attention to the protection of practices of all faiths. Moreover, His Majesty personally contributes to Buddhist and other religious institutions. His Majesty has been a major driving force behind rural development and poverty alleviation. The visits of His Majesty and Queen Sirikit to rural villages in various provinces around Thailand have not only given them an insight into the daily lives of the people, but have also established the trust and respect among Thai people. Several of His Majesty’s projects seek to relieve problems caused by deforestation. These include reforestation, improvement of existing farmland, planting of commercial fruit orchards, programs to educate the public on the importance of preserving forests and protecting the environment. His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej has become a paternal figure to millions of His subjects who are no longer amazed to find Him in their village, available to consult about matters both trivial and serious. Queen Sirikit complements His Majesty’s work with Her program to promote supplementary occupations. Some indigenous handicrafts such as basketry, clay figure making, silk weaving, cotton weaving, pottery making, ceramics and woodcarving were in danger of disappearing when Queen Sirikit undertook Her campaign to preserve them. Today, training centers have been established in all regions for teaching these arts, thereby bringing additional income to people who still rely heavily on agriculture as their principal source of income. From the oldest to the youngest, His Majesty and Queen Sirikit's children include Her Royal Highness Princess Ubol Ratana, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, Her Royal Highness Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn. More information about the Thai Monarchy can be found on The Thai Monarchy web site. |
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