Thailand

ARTICLE 19 provides in-depth analysis of Thailand’s defamation laws in thisreport, underscoring an urgent call for reform to protect freedom of expression and align the country’s legislation with international human rights standards.

This report looks at whether the laws and policies in Thailand make it possible for children to access their environmental rights.

The protesters’ complaints about the government’s anti-democratic nature have been underscored by the authorities’ response to the protests. The government has harassed and obstructed protest organisers at every turn. At least 173 individuals have been charged because of their role in protests this year.

Military courts sentenced at least two internet users to more than a decade each in prison, one based on private chat messages criticizing royalty

In December [2016], the government approved an amendment to the 2007 Computer Crimes Act (CCA) that expanded authorities’ power to monitor internet activity and censor online content.

During the year, the ruling National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) junta curtailed the rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly through repressive laws such the Referendum Act, the Computer Crime Act, and article 116 of the penal code on sedition, as well as NCPO orders censoring media and preventing public gatherings of more than five people.

The authorities proposed new measures that could further restrict media freedom, including a Cybersecurity Bill that would increase surveillance, prevent the publication of sensitive material, and facilitate data interception and website blocking. However, the government appeared to step back from plans to create a single gateway for all internet traffic following a public outcry.

Military court passes longest lese majeste sentence on record, 56 to 60 years in prison

Ranked 166th in annual global media freedom report

“Hate speech has now become common in satellite TV, low-powered radio stations and social networks”

Authorities ease restrictions on “Red-Shirt” websites and radio stations

“Authorities extend online censorship to social media”

Ranked 130th in annual press freedom index

Computer Crimes Act and lesse majests law continue to be used to suppress free speech

Ranked 140th in annual global media freedom report

Authorities ease restrictions on red-shirt websites and community radio stations

“Finally, an independent broadcast regulator”

New Premier wields lèse majesté laws to censor websites and Facebook pages, harass internet users who post material critical of monarchy

Ranked 137th in annual press freedom index