What’s Behind Thailand’s Lèse Majesté Crackdown?

In Thailand it’s often referred to, usually in hushed tones, as “the institution.” In a land where the holy trinity consists of nation, religion and king, talking about the monarchy, except in terms of adulation, can be risky business. Political activists, university professors, webmasters and now even a U.S

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Figures show UK still in recession

Britain’s gross domestic product suffered another decline in the third quarter of 2009, figures showed Friday, meaning the country remains mired in recession. The 81-year-old appeared outside the Bangkok hospital as onlookers shouted, “God bless the King.” He was wheeled to an outdoor area of the hospital, where he paid respects to a statue of King Rama V.

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Markets reflect fears on health of Thai king

A scare over the health of Thailand’s king has delivered a blunt lesson to investors about political risk in a country where many see the revered monarch as the sole hope of reconciliation in an increasingly fractured society. The palace tried to combat rumours about the 81-year-old king’s health with a statement on Wednesday evening, saying his condition was improving after almost a month in hospital with fatigue and breathing problems.

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