Arnon Nampha, a fearless human rights lawyer, is serving over 14 years in prison for defending freedom of expression and peaceful assembly in Thailan and may face up to 150. Many activists, held without bail, face harsh charges under lèse-majesté laws for simply speaking out.
What’s the problem?
Dozens of activists are imprisoned for exercising their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, with at least 25 charged under the lèse-majesté law. Arnon Nampha, a courageous human rights lawyer, and over 20 activists are in pre-trial detention without bail. Fourteen others are serving convictions under lèse-majesté (Penal Code Article 112), with sentences as high as 43.6 years in prison.
Arnon, a prominent figure in Thailand’s pro-democracy movement, faces severe punishment simply for peaceful protest and freedom of expression. Known for his advocacy, he has championed social justice, democracy, and the rule of law, often at great personal risk. Arnon has provided free legal support to other activists and defended individuals facing unjust charges under restrictive laws.
In a major crackdown on dissent, Thai authorities have targeted Arnon and others under the harsh lèse-majesté law, which threatens anyone who speaks out with lengthy prison sentences. Currently, Arnon is serving over 14 years in prison, with more cases that could add up to 150 years if convicted.
What can you do to help?
Stand with Arnon and demand justice! Urge the Thai government to drop all charges, release him immediately, and free peaceful activists held for expressing their views.
READ THE PETITION LETTER BELOW
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra
Office of the Prime Minister
Government House, 1 Nakhon Pathom Road,
Dusit, Bangkok, Thailand 10300
Your Excellency
I am writing to respectfully urge the Thai government to immediately and unconditionally release Arnon Nampha and all political activists detained under the lèse-majesté law (Article 112). These individuals have been imprisoned solely for exercising their fundamental rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, essential pillars of human rights.
Using defamation laws to silence peaceful voices undermines human rights and stifles the diversity of perspectives needed for a just and inclusive society. Arnon Nampha and countless others have courageously advocated for justice, often at great personal risk. Their prolonged detention breaches international human rights standards and obstructs efforts to build a society rooted in fairness and inclusion.
I urge you to release Arnon Nampha including all activists and amend laws restricting freedom of expression to align with Thailand’s commitments as a member of the UN Human Rights Council.
Sincerely,
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