Thailand Constitution Day (10 December): History, Celebrations, and Key Facts
Every year on 10 December, Thailand celebrates Constitution Day. This historic event, a cornerstone of Thailand’s modern history, represents the transition from an absolute monarchy to a system in which the Constitution guarantees a balance of power.
In 1932, Thailand adopted a constitutional monarchy. This was an important step in the democratic process. Prior to 1932, Thailand was governed by an absolute monarchy, with all powers vested in the king. The day of 10 December is a reminder of this transition, which made it possible to maintain the presence of the monarchy and make it a symbol of national unity.
The 1932 Revolution: Thailand’s Constitutional Shift
At the beginning of the twentieth century, many countries ruled by monarchs underwent changes or even revolutions that completely overturned the regimes in place until then. In Thailand, the economic difficulties following the Great Depression had a significant impact on the position and role of the king.
The People’s Party, made up of intellectuals and soldiers, was the main force behind the change of regime, proposing to King Rama VII that he move to a constitutional monarchy. To achieve this, it was necessary to draw up a new constitution to give more weight to the people’s representatives.
This constitution was the first version. Since then, Thailand has seen more than twenty constitutions, the latest dating from 2016-2017.
Constitution Day celebrations: traditions and symbols
On 10 December, parades are generally organised in Thailand’s main cities. In Bangkok, for example, there are parades along the avenue leading to Democracy Monument. This building was erected to commemorate the change of regime in 1932. This day is also a celebration of the King, so portraits of the sovereign are displayed in all strategic locations.
Finally, 10 December is a public holiday, so all government offices, schools and universities are closed.
A noter
10 December, Constitution Day, is a public holiday, but it is not a religious holiday, so the sale of alcohol is permitted.
Questions about 10 December
What are the other symbolic places linked to this event?
Several emblematic places in Thailand are more or less linked to Constitution Day and to the history of the transition to a constitutional monarchy in 1932:
- Democracy Monument (Bangkok)
- Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall (Bangkok)
- Royal Plaza and the statue of King Rama V (Bangkok)
- Sanam Luang (Bangkok)
- Thammasat University (Bangkok)
- Residence of Pridi Banomyong (Ayutthaya)
Why have there been so many constitutions in Thailand?
This complex question deserves to be developed in depth, but here are a few main points to explain this institutional instability:
- coups d’etat (most recently in 2014)
- The quest for political balance (many political parties are made and unmade for reasons that are not always very clear).
- Ideological conflicts, particularly between conservatives and reformers, which are often marked by generational effects.
- Economic issues, which can accelerate political crises.
All the December events in Thailand
December in Thailand is filled with events and festivals. Discover the full list to make the most of your trip.:
