Independent broadcast media under threat in Thailand
A deafening silence broadcast from Bangkok community radio station 92.25 FM today is a reflection of the current status of freedom of expression and democracy in Thailand.
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the global organisation representing over 500,000 journalists in more than 110 countries, has serious concerns for the future of independent broadcast media in Thailand following the closure of community radio station 92.25 FM on
August 9, 2005 and the Thai Government's subsequent announcement of plans designed to curb community radio stations.
The measures intended to curb anti-government sentiment and criticism on community radio were announced by the PM Office's Minister, Suranand Vejjajiva on Thursday August 11.
The most damaging plan involves closing all community radio stations nationwide and reopening them with their existing frequencies under the jurisdiction of the government Public Relations Department.
The proposals also include banning all commercials on community radio, previously allowed in order for operators to financially break even, and retroactively taxing community radio stations that have made profits by exploiting their commercial airtime.
"These government proposals are designed to eradicate the last vestige of freedom for Thailand's broadcast media," said IFJ president Christopher Warren.
"It is impossible for true democracy to function without a legitimate space for government criticism and public debate," said Warren.
The government is calling for the closure of all current community radio stations due the alleged interference with mainstream radio and television programming and aeronautical radio signals.
The changes will be discussed in workshops organised for September and the master plan will be submitted for approval to the yet-to-be-formed National Broadcasting Commission.
The proposed changes to broadcasting in Thailand follow a raid at approximately 2pm on August 9 by up to 30 officials representing the police, the Public Relations department (PRD) and National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) on local community radio station FM 92.25.
The station's producer was verbally accused of disseminating false information, inciting the public against the government and disturbing aeronautical radio signals. The producer was stripped of her ID and the station's equipment was confiscated.
Despite the government insisting that the closure was in response to the station's transmission interfering with aeronautical signals, it is commonly thought that the raid was connected to the station's strong criticism of the government.
"The state of Thai democracy will remain under threat as long as government harassment of independent broadcasting continues," said Warren.
For further information contact Christopher Warren on +61 411 656 778
The IFJ represents over 500,000 journalists in more than 110 countries worldwide
