On 16 August 2024, Paetongtarn Shinawatra was confirmed by the House of Representatives as the youngest Prime Minister in the history of Thailand. A member of a prominent political family, she navigated a career spanning the corporate sector and governance before assuming the premiership as the second woman to hold the nation's highest political office.
Early Education and Academic Background
Born in Bangkok in 1986, Paetongtarn completed her secondary education at Saint Joseph Convent School and Mater Dei School. She pursued higher education at Chulalongkorn University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science in 2008 with a focus on sociology and anthropology. She later relocated to England to obtain a Master of Science degree in international hotel management from the University of Surrey in 2009. In 2024, she completed studies at the National Defence College of Thailand.
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Before her transition to formal politics, Paetongtarn worked as an entrepreneur and businessperson. Her professional background includes roles at McDonald's and as a director of the Thaicom Foundation. She is identified as a major shareholder of SC Asset Corporation. Her private business portfolio has historically encompassed 21 companies, with assets valued at approximately ฿68 billion.
Political Ascent and Premiership
Paetongtarn became leader of the Pheu Thai Party in 2023. Following the removal of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, she was appointed Prime Minister on 18 August 2024 after receiving an endorsement from King Vajiralongkorn. Her administration introduced ten priority policies, ranging from debt restructuring and energy cost reduction to the integration of the informal economy into the tax system. She also served as the Chairperson of the National Soft Power Development Committee.
Suspension and Removal from Office
Her tenure faced significant legal challenges related to a phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen regarding border tensions. On 1 July 2025, the Constitutional Court suspended her from her duties. On 29 August 2025, the court issued a 6–3 ruling that resulted in her official removal from the office of Prime Minister. Following this departure, she assumed the role of Minister of Culture on 30 June 2025.
Fast facts
- Born: 1986, Bangkok
- Citizenship: Thailand
- Education: Chulalongkorn University, University of Surrey
- Prime Minister of Thailand: 2024-2025
- Languages: Thai, English
- Religion: Theravada
- Award: Gold Medal of the Direkgunabhorn (2005)
Questions readers ask
What academic degrees does Paetongtarn Shinawatra hold?
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Chulalongkorn University and a Master of Science in international hotel management from the University of Surrey.
When was she removed from her position as Prime Minister?
The Constitutional Court of Thailand officially removed her from office on 29 August 2025 following a 6–3 vote.
Achievements
- Affiliated with McDonald's
- Educated at Saint Joseph Convent School and Mater Dei School
- Worked as politician, businessperson and entrepreneur
