Country explorer: Thailand

Thailand has exhibited robust economic growth, marked by a consistent rise in GDP per capita, a significant reduction in poverty across all thresholds, exceptionally low unemployment rates compared to its regional peers, and managed inflation—underlining its dynamic economic resilience and development strategy within Southeast Asia.

Thailand has experienced an overall stabilization in population growth, a gradual decline in fertility rates aligning with global trends towards lower birth rates, and an increase in life expectancy, reflecting common demographic shifts seen in upper-middle-income countries.

Thailand has demonstrated significant progress in basic needs, notably achieving nearly universal access to electricity and significantly increased access to clean cooking fuels, reflecting broader improvements in living standards and infrastructure development that align with trends observed in other upper-middle-income countries.

Thailand has exhibited consistent progress in human development, reflected by improvements in its Human Development Index, significant reductions in child mortality rates, rising literacy rates, and enhancements in the quality and quantity of education, indicating a trajectory of development shared by several upper-middle-income countries but distinguished by its own unique rate of advancement and challenges.

Thailand has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing its energy sustainability through significant increases in electricity production from renewable sources, including solar and wind, while contending with challenges in managing its CO2 emissions, renewable freshwater resources, and forest area, reflecting a trajectory similar to other upper-middle-income countries but with a notable emphasis on solar energy expansion.

Thailand has experienced significant growth in internet usage, mobile phone subscriptions, and scientific output, reflecting broader societal shifts towards technological integration and innovation, aligning with trends observed in other upper-middle-income countries.

Thailand has experienced significant societal transformation, reflected in moderately increasing immigration, improved life satisfaction, reduced gender inequality, and an aging population, showcasing a blend of progressive socio-economic development and demographic shifts shared with upper-middle-income countries.

Thailand has experienced fluctuations in governance indicators, reflecting challenges in upholding rule of law, combating corruption, and protecting political civil liberties and press freedom, positioning it distinctively amidst gradual improvements or declines seen in its Southeast Asian peers and upper-middle-income countries.