At times it seems like SE Asia is heading in the right direction with its leadership and freedom. Even Vietnam has made some progress toward capitalism and increased freedom (albeit slight). Then I hear about Thailand and the military coup and instability of the elected government and I have to wonder what is really going on. Can a country where the military can seize control from a legitimate elected government just because they decide that a particular leader is unworthy expect lasting freedom? I would say the answer is a resounding, "no!"
In truly free societies, we have mechanisms that allow for the removal of elected officials. There are impeachment, recalls, and elections. If a leader doesn't do the job, we just vote them out. If a leader is corrupt, they can be impeached or, in some areas, recalled. Our system has its flaws, but it generally assures a peaceful transition of power and the military stays out of it. When the military gets involved, it is a sign of a power vacuum and bad things happen when there are power vacuums. The most despicable, ruthless, and power-hungry dictators-in-waiting thrive in power vacuums and crisis. They take advantage of weaknesses in the system to seize power and then they don't relinquish the power. In a country where the military can seize control whenever they feel like, it is only a matter of time before they don't give it back.
I am concerned that normalized relations between the U.S. and Vietnam will mean that there is more free trade, but no more freedom for the people of Vietnam. Still, free trade and an open economy are strong precursors to overall freedom and is welcome progress.
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Great comments. I agree that the region is unstable. You mention that military dictaroships do not foster progress among its people, just those in power. Take North Korea or example. It has a dictator style leadership where Kim Jong-Il decides what happens in the country. He has fostered censorship by not allowing South Korean television program to be broadcast in North Korea. There are only 24 telephone lines between the Seoul and Pyongyang. Those in power want one thing: more power. Kim Jong-Il will stay in power until the day he dies, which is bad news for North Koreans and any possible unification. Thailand is another example which you mention. Army forces can take control of the government and only support those in power. Trade between governments hel[s corporations but does little for the people of those countries.
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