Walking Street, Bicycle Lanes, and Running Tracks: Dynamics of Thai Public Space after the Tom Yum Kung Crisis

Abstract

This article emphasizes analyzing the production of public space through Henri Lefebvre’s concept of the production of space, which views social space as a product of each historical period. After the 1997 economic crisis, the concept of public space in Thailand changed significantly. The severe financial situation and the growing power of people aligned with the movement for the 1997 constitution, which aimed to support people's freedom and improve the quality of life as never before. These factors have led to the emergence of new public spaces, such as "walking streets," which have altered power dynamics by giving ordinary people greater control over streets traditionally dominated by vehicles. The use of public space has evolved in an open atmosphere marked by the expansion of economic activities and consumption in public areas. However, political tensions that emerged with the rise of mass politics in the late 1990s led to protests and opposition to the government. This politicization of public space contributed to the 2006 coup. Mass politics became increasingly polarized, culminating in protests that escalated into the occupation of government buildings and streets in central Bangkok. A second coup occurred in 2014, followed by the suppression of freedom of expression and the enactment of a law prohibiting public assembly in 2015, making political rallies in public difficult. Consequently, streets and public spaces are no longer venues for free political expression as they once were. The heightened tension, combined with strict area control and public dissatisfaction with politics, has led some people to focus more on their health. Exercising in public areas has become a favored alternative, viewed as an outdoor activity that does not pose a threat to the state. Although these gatherings have burgeoned into widespread social phenomena, such as the "Pan Phuea Mae - Pan Phuea Pho" (Bike for Mom - Bike for Dad) event, they are closely linked to the monarchy, inspiring ongoing initiatives, such as the construction of bicycle la es nationwide. Additionally, the charity running campaign "Kao Khon La Kao" (One Step at a Time) has popularized marathon running among the public. This trend has influenced the design and development of jogging tracks in urban areas across various provinces. These projects reflect people's power to determine policies regarding public spaces. While streets that demonstrate local initiatives, jogging tracks, and bicycle lanes often originate from central and regional government directives, receiving significant funding but lacking sufficient oversight, it reveals that the power of the people remains limited and controlled.