Description
Thailand's lese-majesté law, enshrined in Article 112 of the Criminal Code, has long been a tool for protecting the monarchy from defamation. However, recent developments have highlighted a concerning surge in prosecutions under this statute, raising alarms both domestically and internationally. #asiadailynews.org #lese_majeste_arrest_thailand_15_years_risk_facts
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1. Significant Increase in Prosecutions Since 2020
Since the resurgence of student-led protests in 2020, there has been a notable uptick in lese-majesté cases. As of early 2025, at least 279 individuals have been charged under this law, many for expressing dissent or sharing content deemed critical of the monarchy. These prosecutions have often resulted in lengthy pretrial detentions, with some individuals held without bail for extended periods. For instance, in May 2024, activist Netiporn Sanesangkhom died in custody after suffering cardiac arrest while awaiting trial on lese-majesté charges.
2. International Concerns Over Academic Freedom
A particularly alarming case involves Paul Chambers, an American academic and lecturer at Naresuan University in Phitsanulok. In April 2025, Chambers was arrested and charged with lese-majesté and violations of the Computer Crime Act. The charges stemmed from a promotional blurb for an academic seminar discussing Thailand’s military and police reshuffles, which was posted online by a foreign research institute. Thai authorities alleged that the content falsely suggested royal involvement in military appointments, thereby defaming the monarchy.
This case is notable because it marks a rare instance of a foreign national being prosecuted under Thailand's lese-majesté law. The U.S. State Department expressed deep concern over the arrest, emphasizing issues related to freedom of expression and academic freedom. The incident has drawn international criticism, with human rights organizations condemning the use of lese-majesté charges to suppress legitimate academic discourse.
3. Calls for Repeal and Reform
The increasing application of lese-majesté charges has prompted calls for legal reform. United Nations experts have urged Thailand to repeal the lese-majesté law, describing it as a tool for silencing dissent and restricting freedom of expression. Critics argue that the law is being misused to target individuals who are merely exercising their right to free speech, thereby stifling democratic discourse.
In response to these concerns, Thai authorities have stated that the law is necessary to maintain national security and protect the monarchy's dignity. However, the growing number of prosecutions and the international backlash suggest that the law's application may be evolving in ways that conflict with fundamental rights.
Conclusion
The rise in lese-majesté charges in Thailand underscores a critical intersection of national security, freedom of expression, and international relations. While the law remains a cornerstone of Thailand's legal framework, its increasing use against both citizens and foreigners has sparked significant debate. As the situation develops, it will be essential to monitor how Thailand balances the protection of its monarchy with the preservation of fundamental human rights.