Transcript of the above video:

As the title of this video suggests, we are discussing NGOs in Thailand and we are also discussing International NGOs. NGOs for those who are unaware, sometimes called Not for Profit Organizations, basically, they are what they sound like; they are non-governmental organizations, they are not with the Government. They are also not business entities per se; they are not looking too make a profit, they are NGOs. They have specific functions. Sometimes it is kind of more of a research nature; sometimes they kind of have an agenda if you will. 

A recent article from the Bangkok Post, that is bangkokpost.com, very interesting article. Implications of New Draft Law on NGOs. Quoting directly: "Thailand's long-standing business as usual approach to local Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) and International Non-governmental Organizations (INGOs) will soon be a thing of the past." Quoting further: "The whole new approach which has already been attacked by human rights organizations and activists, could have devastating effects on the country's soft power and its openness. This new Act, if it becomes law, will require all not for profit associations, including grassroots communities and interest organizations to show "transparency" in clarifying the sources of their funding and submit an Annual Report with auditing details. Needless to say, the recipients which have never revealed their funding sources will certainly view such intentions as a measure if intimidation and a means to control their activities." that seems to be a little bit of opinion on the author's part. Quoting further: “Failure to comply with the objectives and activity stated by their organizations could lead to criminal charges and imprisonment." Quoting further: "The fact that Thailand has never expelled an INGO is a barometer of recognition for the role in the development and protection of civil and political rights even though their actions and evaluations upset the Government." 

What is going on here? Well I think there is a lot of things at play, I am not really going to get into the political ramifications but this could have tremendous ramifications from an accounting standpoint for NGOs in Thailand. As noted, they are going to undertake an audit and certain things associated with the transparency of funding associated with these organizations. It may result in more costs associated with maintaining their presence here in Thailand, presumably more administrative costs to be sure. 

I definitely think that this is a bit of a sea change. It is probably going to shake things up at least administratively in a lot of these Non-governmental Organizations or as they call them International Non-governmental Organizations. How exactly this plays out remain to be seen. We will certainly keep folks updated on this channel as the situation progresses.