Most people believe the United States and other western countries are trying to interfere in Thailand's handling of human rights issues, according to the result of an opinion poll by the National Institute for Development Administration, or Nida Poll.
The poll was carried out on July 16-17 on 1,250 people aged 18 and over of various levels of education and occupation throughout the country to compile their opinions on criticisms of Thailand by the US, European Union and international organisations such as Human Rights Watch for alleged human rights violations.
The alleged violations include trafficking in persons, the arrests of 14 New Democracy Movement students and the repatriation of Uighur illegal migrants to China.
Most of the respondents, 37.92%, said the US had attempted to interfere in Thailand's internal affairs; 22% believed it was part of the US' political game with intent to hit China; 16.24% said it was a US attempt to expand its influence in the Asia-Pacific Region; 14.24% believed it was an attempt by western countries to create an image of being human rights advocates; 13.6% said those critical of Thailand had honestly performed the duty of democratic countries; and 10.96% believed Thailand had committed human rights violations as alleged.
Asked whether they are worried by the attitudes of the US, EU and international organisations over Thailand's handling of human rights issues, most of them or 36.32% said they are not worried at all; 28.08% said they are rather worried; 21.36% a little worried; 13.84% much worried; and, 0.40% no answer.