Student Study Group: Pad Thai & Politics
This in-person study group led by Pita Limjaroenrat, a 2023 election-winning Thailand Prime Minister Candidate and former leader of the Move Forward Party in Thailand, will take place throughout four sessions. Applications are necessary.
In-Person Event
Ash Center Conference Room (124 Mt. Auburn Street, 200N, Room 225)
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm EDT
This in-person study group led by Pita Limjaroenrat, a 2023 election-winning Thailand Prime Minister Candidate and former leader of the Move Forward Party in Thailand, is divided into two parts. This study group is co-sponsored by the Thai Study Program at the Harvard University Asia Center.
The first part in Fall 2024 will focus on discussions on how to build a political career and platform, drawing on his personal experience as a popular political leader who built a winning campaign in the national elections. The goal is to help train aspiring politicians who are currently Harvard students through the Harvard Kennedy School and the Harvard University Asia Center.
The second part in early 2025 will cover human rights, politics and international affairs in the Southeast Asian region. These content-based modules will feature prominent guest speakers from the region, including a Nobel laureate, academics, incumbent, and former high-level officials. They will provide both theoretical insights and practical exchanges for participants interested in Southeast Asian affairs.
Session dates
October 21 — Session 1: Building a Personal Narrative for a Political Career
November 4 — Session 2: Winning the Election under constraints, building a Political Platform Without Compromising Values
January 29 — Session 3: ASEAN Human Rights Mechanisms - Challenges and Opportunities
February 19 — Session 4: The Future of Globalization and International Trade & Implications for Southeast Asia
About the Speaker
Pita Limjaroenrat is a prominent Thai politician, 2023 election-winning Prime Minister candidate, and former leader of the Move Forward Party. Under his leadership, his party-known for its reformist policies- won the most seats in Thailand’s general election, representing a new wave of progressive politics in the country. Pita has been recognized for his innovative use of grassroots campaigns, social media strategy, and focus on human rights, transparency, and political reform. With his background in both politics and business, Pita brings a wealth of experience in navigating complex political landscapes and building successful, values-driven political platforms. Pita is now a Senior Research Fellow at the Rajawali Foundation Institute for Asia, Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation, Harvard Kennedy School.
Registration Information
This Study Group is open to HUID holders only. Please apply here. Approved attendees will be informed via Harvard email by October 17.