What would it take, and how long would it take, to elevate Thailand from its current state to one comparable to Japan or South Korea?
I have been living here in Isaan for nearly a year. The economy seems to be largely tourist-based, the political landscape seems to be unstable at best, sloppiness and corruption seem, from others' reports, to characterize law enforcement and bureaucracy. STDs and illegal drugs are everywhere, and the rate of infidelity ranks among the highest in the world. Much of the population lives in poverty, draconian laws with equally draconian punishments are still in place, and animal welfare is on almost nobody's radar. Infrastructure is poor, and many people do not have ready access to potable water. To top it off, the country suffers from a reputation (earned or not I will let you decide) as a place for visitors from wealthier nations to visit, cause problems, and leave.
What would be the fastest, most effective means toward elevating the country toward a safer, more prosperous existence? Does a way even exist, or is it too late at this point?