Thailand's Lottery of Fate: How a Card Draw Decides Military Service

In a unique twist on military conscription, Thailand uses a lottery system to determine which 21-year-old men will serve. The process involves young men drawing cards from an urn in front of family and witnesses. A red card means two years of service, while a black card exempts them. "It's a nerve-wracking experience," says one participant. However, exceptions are made for students, those with health issues, and transgender individuals with official documentation. This system, while seemingly random, reflects a complex interplay of tradition and modern social considerations in Thailand.