The Assault on Democracy .....

So, there seems to be conclusive evidence that a North Korean torpedo sank a South Korean Warship (unless that evil organization Quantum that James Bond is fighting against is behind it).

Immediate rhetoric and condemnation was uttered by both Canadian and American political figures.

What puzzles me, is in the wake of this latest folly between North and South Korea is the on going assault on democracy in Thailand has not nearly received as much political zeal from our elected officials.

Much like Tianemen Square, advocates of democracy are being put down. I don't think a military coup, whether bloody or bloodless, counts as 'democratic'. The Red Shirts have a valid concern that the current government is not legitimate and that immediate elections are the only fair way to settle the differences between the political and social groups struggling for control.

I think the reason that no one is talking about sanctions against the current Thai government is the same reason that Western political powers don't complain about the lack of civil rights in Saudi Arabia.

Oil, minerals, cheap labour, tourism, chances are if a country has an abundance of one or more of these, then foreign policy says to not upset the apple cart.

So clean up the streets current Thai government, the stains of your assault on democracy will be the most visceral part of your legacy.