A mask of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Red rose and banners are left by anti-government red shirt protesters after clashes with the country’s security forces in central Bangkok May 20, 2010.

Last night, survivors of Bangkok’s bloody week were scrambling home to the north and north-east on buses and trains.

Mr Somphong did not know how many of those who died in Bangkok came from Udon Thani, but he said the deaths would inspire further resistance: ”We won’t give up. We will keep fighting for democracy.”

The feeling of difference is reinforced by the fact that Isaan is the poorest region of the country. It has low levels of literacy that lead some into low-paid work in Bangkok as maids, motorcycle taxi drivers and, for many women, as prostitutes.

See the full article from “The Age”




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