Defamation cases a total violation of rights, OHCHR says

The statement was issued following the October 29 decision of the Phuket Court to go ahead with a criminal defamation suit filed by mining firm, Tungkum Ltd, against Loei-native Surapan Rujichaiwat. The mining company has also brought a number of other civil and criminal cases against members of the Khon Rak Ban Koed Group (KRBK), including Porntip Hongchai, who is due to appear in court on Monday on defamation charges. 

OHCHR pointed out that these criminal cases followed a May 15 incident in which a group of armed men attacked and injured more than 20 villagers, including members of the KRBK, who were blockading the transportation of minerals.

“OHCHR is concerned by the continuation of the lawsuit, as it appears that it is being used to silence those who raise legitimate issues publicly and echoes a trend of the use of defamation suits against human-rights defenders. OHCHR is aware of at least five other human-rights defenders facing criminal defamation cases for raising issues such as trafficking, labour rights and torture,” the agency said in a statement. 

It said criminalisation of defamation had a chilling effect and could unduly restrict the freedom of expression. Human rights defenders needed full protection of the state to carry out their work without fear of criminal prosecution, the agency said noted.

“We urge the government to carefully review such cases and ensure full compliance with international human rights standards.”