Thai Protesters Clash with Police in Bangkok

Thailand is a constitutional monarchy, where the king has a special status as the protector of the Buddhist religion.

Led by students

Thailand's student-led pro-democracy movement began last year, calling for the government's resignation and reforms to the monarchy.

Protesters have openly criticized King Maha Vajiralongkorn, breaking with longstanding taboos.

Activists argue that the king has acquired too much power since he took the throne in 2016, following his father's death.

The surge of Covid-19 cases in Thailand slowed down the student movement.

The Royal Palace has not commented on the protests, but authorities consider criticism of the king unlawful.