8. The King
Definitely the most important factor in Thailand's crisis is King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The 86 year old monarch is the longest-serving current head of state in the world and the most revered and respected individual in Thailand. The Thai population is divided among ethnic, economic, social, and political lines, but the King is what brings them all together. Unfortunately, the King's age and state of health are a concern, and his eventual passing will likely mean the demise of the only glue that is holding Thailand together.
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