Thailand Stops Journalist From Attending World Press Freedom Day in Finland
Pravit Rojanaphruk holding a copy of the draft constitution that some critics believe will reinforce military rule in Thailand. Pravit is seen flashing the three-finger sign, which is also a symbol of protest used by pro-democracy forces in Thailand. Photo: Pravit Rojanaphruk / Facebook
Thai military authorities have rejected a veteran journalist's application to attend a conference in Finland on May 3 for World Press Freedom Day.
Pravit Rojanaphruk, a correspondent for Khaosod English News and a known critic of the junta, posted several updates on social media about his failure to get a permission from the government to leave the country. He was supposed to go to Helsinki, in order to join other journalists in a global event organized by UNESCO.
Since the May 2014 coup, Pravit has consistently criticized Thailand's military dictatorship. He was twice summoned and detained by the army for a few days to undergo “attitude-adjustment” in a military camp, but he's continued his critical reporting about the state's activities. No charges were filed against him, but he was “advised” to stop spreading “confusing” information about the government. He was also told that he cannot leave the country without the approval of the state.
The army grabbed power in 2014, drafted an interim constitution, and vowed to restore civilian rule after reforms are implemented in the country. Two years later, the army is still in control, media is strictly regulated, and public protests are banned. Pravit is one of the few public voices still criticizing the dictatorial character of the military-backed government.
Below are Pravit’s Twitter posts about the authorities’ decision to deny his application for foreign travel:
Invitation letter 4 World Press Freedom Day conference in Helsinki organized by UNESCO & denied by junta. #Thailand pic.twitter.com/3l1KH3lvad
— Pravit Rojanaphruk (@PravitR) March 31, 2016
Junta rep. just rang me saying they won't allow me 2 go to Finland per Finland's govt invitation 2 mark Press Freedom Day in May. #Thailand
— Pravit Rojanaphruk (@PravitR) March 30, 2016
When junta rep. rang me to deliver bad news, he said my trip to Helsinki “has to be postponed”. I asked if it means it's no go. #Thailand
— Pravit Rojanaphruk (@PravitR) March 30, 2016
BBC Thai news asked junta y forbid me from traveling 2 #Finland 2attend World Press Freedom event. Junta rep says can't give info #Thailand
— Pravit Rojanaphruk (@PravitR) March 30, 2016
If junta thinks forbidding me to travel abroad would silence me then they're mistaken. Will continue 2 scrutinize&criticize them. #Thailand
— Pravit Rojanaphruk (@PravitR) March 30, 2016
Kirsti Westphalen, Finland's ambassador to Thailand, says he “regrets” the decision of the Thai government:
The Embassy of #Finland regrets #Thailand government decision to forbid @PravitR to travel to Helsinki to attend World Press Freedom Day.
— Kirsti Westphalen (@Kwestphalen20) March 30, 2016
3 comments
The dictatorial junta ruling Thailand is systematically destroying the country’s democratic institutions, effectively turning the Constitution of Thailand into a constitution in name only. The right of free speech is essential to the cause of human rights, and protection of freedom of the press must be upheld in order to protect human rights in Thailand. Refer to the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which prohibits Congress from passing any law which would inhibit freedom of the press and freedom of assembly. See also the Charter for Permanent Peace and Sustainable Development.