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The economic aftermath of Thailand's 2014 military coup: Evidence from the synthetic control method

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  • Wisarut Suwanprasert

Abstract

In this paper, I study the effects of Thailand’s 2014 military coup on Thailand’s economy. I use the synthetic control method to create synthetic Thailand, which represents hypothetical Thailand had the 2014 coup not occurred. The empirical findings reveal no statistically significant effects on key economic variables such as gross domestic product, unemployment, military expenditure, and income inequality. Contrary to previous research, military expenditures did not increase following the coup. Supporters of the coup may interpret these results as evidence that the coup had no negative effects on the economy. At the same time, critics may argue that the coup did not lead to improved economic outcomes compared with the politically unstable precoup period, thus perpetuating a state of national stagnation.

Suggested Citation

  • Wisarut Suwanprasert, 2024. "The economic aftermath of Thailand's 2014 military coup: Evidence from the synthetic control method," Asian Economic Journal, East Asian Economic Association, vol. 38(2), pages 256-283, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:asiaec:v:38:y:2024:i:2:p:256-283
    DOI: 10.1111/asej.12333
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Theepakorn Jithitikulchai & Sittisak Leelahanon, 2025. "Analysis of Changes in Thailand’s Income Distribution from 2013 to 2021 Using Growth Incidence and Delta Lorenz Curves," PIER Discussion Papers 227, Puey Ungphakorn Institute for Economic Research.

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