- Disrupting the Cycle of Military Coups through Peaceful Public Assemblies

Abstract

Abstract

This article argues that peaceful assemblies serve as a crucial mechanism for citizens to safeguard democratic governance against military coups, drawing on a review of literature related to nonviolent resistance and case studies on anti-coup movements in various countries. This study finds that effective public assemblies must have a clear strategy to make initial resistance to coup attempts widespread. This paper emphasizes that successful peaceful public assemblies must be strategically designed to challenge coup attempts in their early stages, focusing on delegitimizing the coup leaders and preventing their control over state apparatus. In Thailand, this article recommends several key strategies: (1) promoting a culture of peaceful assembly (2) creating public spaces for gatherings (3) preparing citizens for resistance against coups and (4) modifying physical structures to obstruct potential coup attempts.