Tim Pita, accompanied by Kulthida, met with Thais in Germany who are actively engaged in overseas elections and referendum voting. He revealed that registrations for the 2026 election have increased, reflecting how Thais living abroad still care deeply and participate in the country's future.
On 18 Jan 2026 local time in Berlin, Germany. Mr. Pita Limjaroenrat Former leader of the Move Forward Party, accompanied by Ms. Kulthida Rungreungkiat Former deputy leader of the Future Forward Party, arrived in Berlin at the invitation of the Thai community in Germany to meet and exchange views with Thais residing in various cities such as Munich, Hamburg, Bremen, Frankfurt, and Passau.
Mr. Pita praised the democratic engagement of Thais in Germany, noting that the number of registered voters for elections and referendums increased from about 5,000 to over 8,000, a growth rate exceeding 60%. This surpasses the global average for Thais living abroad and reflects the enduring concern and involvement of overseas Thais with their country's future.
During the discussion, Thais in Germany talked about quality of life and state welfare, as well as the tax structure differing from Thailand. They exchanged comprehensive views on the advantages and limitations of a high-tax, high-welfare system, which enables sustained public investment and social security, but also presents challenges such as tax burdens, living costs, and pressures on businesses and workers.
A particularly notable topic was investment in skill development (Upskill and Reskill), which Germany prioritizes globally to support middle-aged workers who may be affected by changes in economic structure, technology, and artificial intelligence (AI). The goal is to create new opportunities for workers to adapt amid these changes.
Mr. Pita said at one point, "No country is exactly the same, and one cannot directly apply another country's model. However, Germany's experience shows that properly designed tax and welfare systems can be key tools to invest in people's quality of life—from education and health to labor security. This is a lesson Thailand can consider and adapt suitably to its own context." .