Demographics of Thailand

Abstract

This article by Prof. Dr. M. Azizur Rahman examines the demographic characteristics of Thailand as a benchmark for developing nations like Bangladesh. Initially a relatively homogenous population, Thailand’s ethnicity is evolving through immigration and assimilation with international cultures. The author highlights Thailand's successful family planning programmed, which effectively reduced the population growth rate from 3.1% in 1960 to approximately 0.56% by 2011. Key demographic indicators noted include a high literacy rate of 92.6%, a workforce where women play a visible role in services and markets, and a life expectancy for both males (71.24 years) and females (76.08 years) that exceeds all South Asian countries. While public health and education policies are praised, the author identifies a relative weakness in English language proficiency among the population. The piece concludes that Thailand’s demographic transition mirrors that of Western countries, offering lessons in public health and educational investment.