Name: Thai editor loses job after criticizing prime minister

Date: 1995 - present

Location: Asia

SubjectPolitical/Economic/Social Opinion

MediumPrint Journalism


Artist: Veera Prateepchaikul

Confronting Bodies: The Bangkok Post administration and government officials

Date of Action: February 2004

Specific Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Description of Artwork: Veera Prateepchaikul wrote a bold headline in The Bangkok Post referring to a statement from Thai king, Bhumibol Adulyadej's, speech that warned of Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra's, arrogance.



Description of Incident: Shortly after printing the controversial headline Veera was moved from his position as editor to another job in the corporation that manages the paper.



Results of Incident: Many journalists have spoken out against the move. Although the paper claimed that the move was merely "a structural matter of organization," many journalists believe it is a government action to control the critical press. Journalists and editors have testified that they have recieved phone calls from critical government officials.



Source: The New York Times

Submitted By: NCAC


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