In a call to action, Human Rights Watch (HRW) implores Thailand to release US academic Paul Chambers, who was detained on charges of lèse majesté and cybercrime. The group asserts that invoking royal insult laws, predominantly against foreigners, constitutes a potential violation of human rights. Elaine Pearson, HRW’s Asia director, emphasises that Chambers’ wrongful prosecution poses a significant risk to academic freedom and free speech in the nation.
The US Department of State has voiced its concerns regarding Chambers’ situation, confirming that consular staff at the Embassy in Bangkok are assisting him. Tammy Bruce, a spokesperson for the department, reiterated America’s disapproval of Thailand’s strict punitive measures for perceived insults to the monarchy. Chambers faces serious allegations that carry substantial penalties, including a potential 15-year prison sentence under the Thai Penal Code.
Arrested on April 8, 2025, Chambers was charged based on a controversial statement he allegedly made regarding Thai military sentiments towards the monarchy for a webinar. He has firmly denied these accusations, yet remains in pre-trial detention after a bail request was rejected by the Phitsanulok provincial court.
This case raises pressing human rights issues concerning lèse majesté laws, which conflict with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) advocating for freedom of expression. The UN’s past critiques of Thailand’s application of these laws highlight ongoing violations of global human rights standards, as seen in their November 2024 appeal for the release of another unjustly detained human rights lawyer under similar charges.
Human Rights Watch is urging Thai authorities to release US scholar Paul Chambers, arrested under lèse majesté and cybercrime charges. The group stresses that such laws pose threats to academic freedom and free speech. The US government is providing consular assistance while expressing concerns over the harsh penalties pertaining to insults against the monarchy. Chambers maintains his innocence but remains in pre-trial detention after a bail application was denied.
Paul Chambers’ arrest signals a troubling trend regarding freedom of expression in Thailand, particularly concerning the controversial lèse majesté laws that disproportionately affect non-nationals. Human Rights Watch advocates for his immediate release, while the US government also expresses concern about the implications of such actions on academic freedom. Chambers’ case not only highlights the dangers faced by critics of the monarchy in Thailand but also reflects the broader international movement for human rights advocacy.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
