If the draft is passed in the upcoming referendum, I would have to continue living in such an undemocratic country for years to come. I would not be happy, but overall my personal life wouldn’t change that much.

Nopporn Thepsithar, president of the Thai National Shippers’ Council

I think my life would not change. I have set goals in my life, so it would go on as I planned. As part of the business sector, I can say that business prefers stable politics. No matter if the draft is approved or not, if the country follows the [reform] road map and the rule of law, the country would be peaceful.

In the past, the country had suffered from fraudulent politicians. I have heard this draft has mechanisms and regulations to curb corruption. It would be helpful.

Kongchai Chaikung, Ban Nong Hu Ling village head, Udon Thani province

If the draft is passed, my life and my villagers’ life as farmers would be better. After the referendum, the next general election will be held. Then we will be able to select our representatives. The elected government would be able to solve the economic crisis.

Preecha Uitragool, Open Forum for Democracy Foundation coordinator for the Isaan region

Nothing changes. A constitution would not change individuals’ lives. The draft would affect the country in a big picture way as it is the law governing the nation [but] personal life depends on individual attitudes and behaviour, rather than laws and regulations.