Thailand has pivotal role to play in south-east Asia

Opinion by Julie Girling MEP

It is a distinct and diverse country which offers opportunities for the United Kingdom and the European Union, and as a gateway to the rest of the region.

A stable, inclusive, democratic Thailand would be in a position to seize the opportunities of EU-ASEAN relations, a partnership which grows stronger year-by-year, and play a full part in promoting cooperation on peace, security, and prosperity across the Asia-Pacific region.

The ASEAN region is a dynamic market with some 580 million consumers, of which some 67 million are in Thailand. Relations with the United Kingdom and the EU are strong. From trade to tourism, investment to culture, the ties are deep and longstanding. The recent bombing of the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok reminds us too of the shared terrorist threats we face. It underlines the need to work together in order to defeat extremism and to protect freedom, democracy and our shared values.

Politically, Thailand is in a mess. The recent rejection of a draft constitution throws the prospect of fresh elections further into the future at a time when stability, certainty, and prosperity are badly needed.

One of the major difficulties faced in Thailand is continuity. Their constitution lasts on average four years. It has been this way since the early 1900s. What is perhaps worse is the many points within the numerous Thai constitutions or charters which go against internationally acceptable standards and frequently against the rule of law. This has, in part, fuelled the unrest and instability the country faces today.

For Thailand to succeed democracy is paramount. Political unrest breeds uncertainty. And with that uncertainty businesses are reluctant to invest, harming both the Thai economy, and those of its trading partners.

The newly rejected constitution delays a return to a democratic Thailand, entrenching the junta leaders in power against the will of many Thais while a new draft constitution is prepared.

As one of the 10 ASEAN members, Thailand is the EU's third largest trading partner outside Europe after the United States and China.

As a major trading partner, it is in our interests to ensure Thailand succeeds politically, economically and socially. We have a role to play in helping the Thai people be part of a democratic society. But that transition must be led by the Thai people themselves.

Reform is needed to breathe new life into an ailing economy. Political change is vital to usher in an era of inclusivity and end the deep divisions within Thai society. Constitutional reforms are badly needed to bolster the power of political parties through democratic means, and not erode them in favour of military rule. A new constitution must also protect fundamental freedoms in line with internationally accepted standards, and lead to a new era of genuine democracy, stability and order.

Today such aspirations seem distant.

The military government in Thailand has promised a speedy transition to democracy but they are not delivering. The United Kingdom and the EU can help but patience is running out.

The cycle of constitution after constitution shows no sign of ending. International diplomatic pressure can play a part in finding solutions in the interests of Thailand and its people. As a key regional partner for Britain and the EU we cannot afford to stand by and watch the constitutional merry-go-round constantly turning.

Against the background of political and social unrest, the European Union and its international partners are right to reassess relations with Thailand.

Despite negotiations on and the initialing of an EU-Thailand Partnership and Cooperation Agreement  (PCA) - which would provide a comprehensive and ambitious framework for EU-Thailand relations and open up wide opportunities to develop cooperation - the EU and its Member States are right not to sign the PCA until a democratically elected government is in place. They are also right to consider other measures and to keep other existing arrangements under review.

Proper relations can only be restored through a legitimate democratic process, the adoption of a new and sustainable constitution, the respect for fundamental freedoms, and through transparent, credible, inclusive elections.

I urge all sides in Thailand to set aside their differences and work together in the national interest. Only then, and with a clear timetable for the return to constitutional government, can we provide the support necessary to strengthen relations and open up further opportunities for the Thai people, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.

Julie Girling is a MEP for south-west England and Gibraltar, follow her on Twitter @juliegirling

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