Photo courtesy of Thai PBS

 

Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leader of Thailand's People’s Party, has been featured on TIME100 Next 2025 in the "leader" category. He is recognized as the sole Thai politician on the list, highlighting his emerging influence in the democratic movement within the country. This accolade immediately elevates Natthaphong's profile as a champion of youth-led reforms aimed at challenging traditional power structures.

 

TIME100 Next is an esteemed annual list spotlighting 100 rising stars and influential figures who are shaping the future. Created with inputs from TIME editors and global journalists, the list features people from various fields including politics, technology, and social activism. It is typically released during the latter months of the year, specifically in September or October.

 

Natthaphong's inclusion marks a significant moment for Thailand's democratic movement, which has sought to break away from military-aligned governance. TIME’s Charlie Campbell describes Natthaphong as a beacon of hope for young people in Thailand, envisioning him potentially leading the nation. With his commitment to political and economic reform and social equality, Natthaphong has articulated a vision to bring full democracy to Thailand.

 

In previous years, former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Pita Limjaroenrat of the Move Forward Party were also recognized by the TIME100 Next, in 2024 and 2023 respectively. This underlines a trend of Thai politicians gaining international attention for their roles in the country’s evolving political landscape.

 

Looking forward, Natthaphong's recognition by TIME could bolster support for the People’s Party, intensifying efforts to implement democratic changes across Thailand. Observers are keenly watching his next moves, as his leadership could influence future political dynamics significantly.

 

Key Takeaways

• Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut is highlighted on TIME100 Next 2025.
• He is noted for his leadership in Thailand's youth-led democratic movement.
• Past Thai leaders also featured on the list include Shinawatra and Limjaroenrat.

 

Related Stories:

Pita Shares TIME100 Next Honour With All Thais

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Named in TIME-100 Next Influential List

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS 2025-10-02

 

 

With an election coming up early next year, the discovery of this young man's ineligibility to stand for election or to lead any political party will soon be announced. 

 

He's TOO YOUNG! He's TOO WELL EDUCATED! He BELIEVES IN DEMOCRACY! He's poor but HE DOESN'T WANT TO SELL HIMSELF TO BECOME RICH! HIS GRANDDAD FOUGHT ALONGSIDE THE JAPANESE! ...

 

Any number of possibilities.

19 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

highlighting his emerging influence in the democratic movement within the country

 

Sadly, the dinosaur pro-military and pro monarchy establishment will not allow this!

Thailand has had (and burned through) many young hopefuls in recent years. I sincerely wish for a better outcome for Natthapong.

On 10/3/2025 at 7:00 AM, mfd101 said:

BELIEVES IN DEMOCRACY!

 

Can't do this inThailand.