Who are these Thai student protesters, and what are they protesting about?

What’s behind all the protests in Thailand right now? What are the protesters demanding? Who are they?

Since August, an organic – mostly young Thais – political movement has been building. It’s different from every other protest movement in the past. The people attending the rallies don’t really align themselves, or identify with, the past political factions. They’re not red shirts or yellow shirts. They are new and claim they’re seeking key changes to Thailand’s political system and the role and powers of the Head of State.

Generally, the current protest movement has distinguished itself with self-restraint, calls for peaceful assembly and its ability to organise large, creative protests. There has been a few scuffles with police, and 5 people with minor injuries. But, compared to past Thai protests, the restraint on both sides has been welcomed.