Dear All,
Thai authorities have announced enforcement of an Internal Security Act this Thursday 11th March lasting 13 days until 23rd March because of mass demonstrations in central Bangkok from the anti-government movement. The enforcement of the security act means that there will be security check points throughout the Bangkok metropolitan area. It is therefore expected that there will be major traffic disruptions during this period, and travel delays are likely to occur.
At the same time the anti-government movement are planning to move in with vehicles and people to cause disruptions in Bangkok. It is expected by the Thai government that up to 150.000 people from different parts of Thailand will participate in the demonstrations. Even though the anti-government claim to perform a peaceful protest, however there is a risk of conflicts and disturbances. There are 6 central areas in Bangkok where they will gather before marching to their end point in Sanam Luang (close to Khaosan road).
Euro-Center Thailand has from the Thai government received information that they welcome peaceful demonstrations and have pledged to observe international standards and procedures for keeping the peace in Bangkok, should it be necessary.
People should exercise caution and stay away from people gatherings and all demonstration sites. It is, as always, important to use common sense in all situations. It should also be noted that by Thai law any foreigner needs to carry their passport with them at all times. It's advisable to follow news media and web sites especially in this coming weekend:
http://www.nationmultimedia.com - The Nation (Thai daily newspaper)
http://www.bangkokpost.com - The Bangkok Post (Thai daily newspaper)
http://ukinthailand.fco.gov.uk/en/help-for-british-nationals/travel-advice - UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Travel Advice Thailand
http://www.um.dk/da/menu/Borgerservice/FoerdinRejse/Rejsevejledninger/RejsevejledningThailand - Danish Foreign Ministry Travel Advice Thailand (in Danish)
http://www.swedenabroad.com/Page____4908.aspx Swedish Embassy in Bangkok - Travel Advice (in Swedish)
Euro-Center Thailand is operating 24/7 as usual and are monitoring the situation closely, and will again send out an update if the situation changes.
Best Regards,
Euro-Center Thailand