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News in Thailand: Current events and things to know

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Written by theo

20 August 2025

News stories in Thailand are diverse: scooter accidents, floods in Thailand today, political demonstrations, or administrative reforms. Whether you are a tourist or an expat, it is essential to stay informed in order to travel safely.

This article reviews the latest news in Thailand today, the places to avoid, and the precautions to take in 2025.

News in Thailand today

  • Trump rules out military action on Greenland, drops tariff threats at Davos
    by Pattaya Mail on 22 January 2026 at 20h55

    DAVOS, Switzerland — U.S. President Donald Trump has backed away from using military force to seize Greenland and withdrawn threats to impose import tariffs on several European countries that opposed the idea, during his appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Wednesday (Jan 21). In a speech in Davos, Trump said for

  • Thai Anti-Fake News Center flags online scams and health misinformat
    by Pattaya Mail on 22 January 2026 at 20h43

    BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE) has released findings from the Anti-Fake News Center Thailand (AFNC) on false and misleading content circulating online. DE Spokesperson Wethang Puangsap stated that the monitoring helps address digital threats and raise public awareness about misinformation, scams, and online deception. The AFNC reviewed 158,735 messages

  • Phuket Governor studies island waste-management model to support sustainable tourism
    by Pattaya Mail on 22 January 2026 at 20h40

    PHUKET, Thailand – Phuket Governor Nirat Phongsitthithavorn has led a delegation to The Racha Hotel on Racha Yai Island to study its waste-management system, as part of efforts to support sustainable tourism across the province. He was joined by Vice Admiral Weerudom Muangjeen, Commander of the Third Naval Area Command and Director of the Third

  • PM Anutin leads merit-making ceremony honoring Somdet Phra Maha Viravongse
    by Pattaya Mail on 22 January 2026 at 20h35

    BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul led a merit-making ceremony at Wat Ratchabophit in Bangkok to mark the 76th birthday of Somdet Phra Maha Viravongse, Assistant Abbot of the temple and Secretary to the Supreme Patriarch. The event, including alms-giving to 108 monks, was attended by senior officials, civil servants, and large numbers of

  • Thai Constitutional Court clears Phumtham and Tawee of ethics violations
    by Pattaya Mail on 22 January 2026 at 20h33

    BANGKOK, Thailand – The Constitutional Court has cleared former Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and former Justice Minister Police Colonel Tawee Sodsong of allegations that they violated ethical standards while in office. The case, brought by a group of senators, accused both men of using the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to interfere with the

Local information reflects everyday realities: road accidents, social tensions, extreme weather conditions. Travelers should closely follow official announcements, especially for Bangkok and tourist areas.

  • Thailand attack today: rare incidents, localized in the southern border provinces (Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat).
  • Floods in Thailand today: frequent between May and October, mainly in the central and northern regions.
  • Thailand news – new measures: in 2025, tourist visa reform and reinforced security checks.
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💡 Good to know

  • Emergency number in Thailand: 191 (police) / 1669 (ambulance).
  • French Embassy in Bangkok: +66 (0)2 657 5100.
  • Tourist visa: maximum 60 days with possible extension.

News stories in Bangkok

As the country’s economic and political capital, Bangkok concentrates a large share of Thailand’s news stories. Risks range from political protests to tourist scams.

Areas to avoid in Bangkok

  • Government district during protests.
  • Certain nightlife areas (scams, drugs, petty theft).
  • Congested avenues during rush hours, particularly risky for scooters.

Is it dangerous to travel to Thailand right now?

This question often comes up: is it dangerous to travel to Thailand right now? The answer is reassuring: the country remains a safe destination, but vigilance is required. The main risks are road accidents, tourist scams, and weather hazards. Thai authorities have strengthened security measures in 2025, giving reassurance to tourists and expats alike.

Risk comparison by city

City Main risks Advice
🏙️ Bangkok Protests, heavy traffic
Taxi scams
Avoid political zones
Use Grab
Be careful with scooters
🏝️ Phuket Scooter accidents
Excursion scams
Rent from reputable agencies
Refuse offers “too good to be true”
🌴 Koh Samui Slippery roads (rainy season) Check weather
Wear a helmet
Have travel insurance
⛰️ Chiang Mai Seasonal pollution
Mountain accidents
Avoid burning season (Feb–Apr)
Be cautious when hiking

Practical advice for travelers and expats

Transport and road safety

Scooter accidents account for most news stories in Thailand. Helmet, international license, and insurance are essential. Avoid suspicious rentals.

Tourist scams

  • Scooter rentals with false damage claims.
  • Taxis without meters, frequent overcharging.
  • Excursions offered by fake guides.
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FAQ – Safety and news in Thailand

What are the most common dangers?

Scooter accidents, tourist scams, petty theft.

Are there terrorism risks in Thailand?

Very low in tourist areas. Risks are localized in the southern border provinces.

How to avoid scooter rental scams?

Choose a reputable agency, take photos, never leave your passport as collateral.

Is drug use a problem in Thailand?

Yes. Consumption is illegal and severely punished (prison, heavy fines).

Are political protests dangerous?

Generally peaceful but best avoided as a precaution.

Is the Thai police corrupt?

Some cases exist. Stay polite, ask for an official receipt in case of a fine.

News stories in Thailand should not discourage travelers. By staying vigilant and well informed, you can fully enjoy your stay safely. For more, check out our guides on:

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