Thailand - Compensation Approved for Victims of Political Protests - NYTimes.com The cabinet approved compensation on Tuesday for victims of the political conflicts that have troubled the country for almost seven years, as the government takes steps toward reconciliation. A total of about $62.8 million will be given to people who suffered what were described as physical and mental losses during the protests that started in 2005, said a government spokeswoman. The initial protests led to a 2006 military coup that further polarized supporters and opponents of ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The payments were recommended by an official truth and reconciliation commission established after the violence crested in the spring of 2010, when antigovernment protests in the capital left 91 people dead and hundreds hurt. Payments of $141,510 are earmarked for families of those killed. Payments will also be made to people judged to have been unfairly detained for prolonged periods.