"This is one of the most comprehensive studies of contemporary Thai politics seen through the careers of Thai military leaders since 1932 up until now. It is of vital importance if one is to understand present-day Thai politics." -Kullada Kesboonchoo-Mead, Chulalongkorn University (retired), author of The Rise and Decline of Thai Absolutism "Paul Chambers has written, arguably, the most comprehensive and detailed book on the evolution of Thailand's military power from the post-World War II era to the present day. This lucid book is a compelling read for anyone seeking to gain insight into the transformation of the country into a praetorian kingdom, where the monarchy and the military are the most powerful institutions. His delicate exploration of the various plots, methods, strategies, twists and betrayals provides readers with valuable perspectives on the inner workings and dynamics of Thailand's praetorian system. One of the book's strengths lies in its use of declassified and leaked documents from the US administrations, adding a sense of excitement and credibility to the analysis." -Puangthong Pawakapan, Chulalongkorn University, author of Infiltrating Society: The Thai Military's Internal Security Affairs "This study on the Thai military does not merely add to the existing critical understandings about its role in the country's politics, it tackles the subject in a new light and challenges us to reexamine our appraisal of each military regime." --- Dr. Chaiyan Rajchagool, University of Phayao, author of The Rise and Fall of the Thai Absolute Monarchy "This book does two significant things; first, cultivating large amounts of primary resources, and second, providing a sophisticated interpretation of Thai military ascendancy until 2023. Based on these reasons, the book is important for insightful and untold stories about the Thai military." -Ukrist Pathmanand, Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand "Monumental in scope and wondrously researched, Praetorian Kingdom is much more than the systematic study of the Thai military that has long been needed. For it is a volume that will compel readers not only to understand crucial episodes in Thailand's modern history in new ways but also to appreciate the continuities in the country's military politics as never before." -Michael Montesano, Associate Senior Fellow, Thailand Studies Programme, ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute
Paul Chambers is a Visiting Fellow, Thailand Studies Programme, ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute, Singapore.
"This book captures the essence of India-ASEAN partnership and reflects the values Ambassador Singh has long championed-dialogue, mutual respect and a commitment to peace and shared prosperity. I am confident that readers will find valuable insights and enduring lessons from one of India's foremost diplomatic voices in these pages." -Dato Erywan Pehin Yusof, Second Minister of Foreign Affairs, Brunei Darussalam "Ambassador Gurjit Singh was India's Ambassador to ASEAN during my tenure as ASEAN Secretary General. This book provides a profound insight into how the India-ASEAN relationship has evolved and how it may further develop in the new phase of a comprehensive strategic partnership." -Le Luong Minh, Former ASEAN Secretary General (2013-17) "Ambassador Gurjit Singh has written an accessible and analytical account of the India-ASEAN relationship and its recent evolution. With his personal experience of shepherding this relationship, which has the potential to be one of India's most significant external engagements, his account and insights deserve a close reading. This is a book that I would highly recommend to all those interested in the course of this rapidly evolving and increasingly significant part of the world." -Shankar Menon, Former National Security Advisor of India "The Act East Policy, which evolves from an economic to a multi-dimensional partnership, revitalized India's ties with ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific. Using his personal experience in the region, Ambassador Gurjit Singh offers a readable and insightful analysis of this evolving relationship and explores its growth and future potential in a shifting global landscape."-Amitabh Kant, India's G20 Sherpa 2022-25
