Meaning: The quote "This is the most terrible thing that can happen in a friendly country if Thai people have to escape from the backdoor of an embassy" by Thaksin Shinawatra, a prominent Thai politician, speaks to the dire circumstances that can lead individuals to seek refuge in foreign embassies. Thaksin Shinawatra, a divisive figure in Thai politics, is known for his strong opinions and vocal criticism of the government. This quote reflects the sentiment that the need for citizens to seek asylum in embassies represents a failure of the host country to protect its own people.

Thaksin Shinawatra's political career has been marked by controversy and polarization. As the former Prime Minister of Thailand, he implemented populist policies that endeared him to many rural and lower-income Thais, while drawing criticism from urban elites and the establishment. His tenure was also marred by allegations of corruption and abuse of power, leading to his ousting in a military coup in 2006. Despite living in exile since 2008, Thaksin remains a significant and influential figure in Thai politics, and his words continue to carry weight among his supporters and detractors.

The quote sheds light on the plight of individuals who feel compelled to seek protection in foreign embassies, often as a last resort in situations of political persecution, human rights abuses, or other forms of danger. Such actions are indicative of a breakdown in the normal mechanisms of protection and justice within a country, leading individuals to seek sanctuary in the embassies of foreign nations. This can occur when individuals feel threatened by their own government or when they believe that they will not receive fair treatment or protection from local authorities.

The act of seeking refuge in an embassy often carries significant political and diplomatic implications. It can strain the relations between the country of refuge and the country from which the individuals are fleeing, as it may be perceived as an indictment of the host country's ability or willingness to protect its citizens. Additionally, the host country may face pressure to intervene in the situation and provide assistance to the individuals seeking refuge, further complicating diplomatic relations.

For the individuals seeking asylum, the decision to escape to the backdoor of an embassy represents a desperate attempt to find safety and protection. This action can come with significant risks, as embassies are considered sovereign territory of the country they represent, and seeking refuge within them can often lead to protracted legal and diplomatic negotiations. Furthermore, the individuals may face uncertainty about their future, as seeking asylum in an embassy does not guarantee long-term safety or a permanent solution to their predicament.

Thaksin Shinawatra's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and complexities surrounding the issue of seeking refuge in foreign embassies. It draws attention to the underlying issues that drive individuals to take such drastic measures and highlights the potential repercussions for both the individuals seeking asylum and the countries involved. As a prominent political figure, Thaksin's words carry weight and contribute to the ongoing discourse on human rights, political persecution, and diplomatic relations.