Thailand is not Free.

Thais are behind bars because of their speech those in power dislike. The 2020-2021 student-led movement has laid to bare the democratic deficit in Thailand, a country marred by military coups and political turmoil. In response, authorities have weaponized numerous laws and measures to shut down the criticism.

As of 10 September 2024, there are at least 42 Thais in prison in cases related to freedom of expression, of which 28 are detained under lèse-majesté law, which carries jail sentences from 3 to 15 years for anyone raising their voice against the monarchy. Among these also include 22 individuals in pre-trial detention and 2 minors. Worse, according to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR), this number continues to rise as days pass, with at least 734 ongoing cases at various stages. As more verdicts are handed down, the number of those facing long prison sentences will increase, leading to further deprivation of liberties and separations of families from their loved ones.

Increasing Numbers of Thai Families Face Separation from Loved Ones

Source: Kai Meaw Cheese

Arnon Nampa:

A human rights lawyer and father of two, currently serving a 14-year sentence, with ten more cases still pending.

Source: Thai Lawyers for Human Rights

"Busbas" Mongkhon Thirakot:

A young activist and devoted son to an elderly mother, sentenced to 50 years for sharing just 25 posts on Facebook.

Source: Thai Lawyers for Human Rights

Tanaporn:

A 24-year-old mother who received a two-year sentence for a single comment made on Facebook.

These cases underscore the ongoing struggle for freedom and democracy in Thailand. These individuals are not only advocates for liberty; they are also cherished mothers, fathers, children, and integral members of their families, friends, and communities. Their imprisonment deprives them of personal freedoms and life experiences while imposing significant emotional and financial burdens on their families. Many of these detainees serve as primary earners, making their absence particularly difficult for households with young children, the elderly, or those in poor health.

Send Your Support to Help Improve Life of Political Prisoners

For those incarcerated, the conditions of Thai prison are incredibly harsh. In addition to having freedom stripped, basic sustenance like food and water are poor in both quantity and quality. Detainees are compelled to rely on outside financial and mental support to maintain even a basic standard of living.

Engage Thailand’s aim is to mobilize support from abroad to help political prisoners. We collaborate with the Thailand-based Freedom Bridge to improve the traumatizing living conditions in Thai prison as well as advocate for their immediate release.

While in prison, political detainees receive essential living items, food assistance, and a monthly deposit to improve their living conditions. Their family or relatives in need also are provided with stipend and funding that help children to go to school and ill members to access necessary supplies

Freedom Bridge is currently supporting 42 political prisoners, but through Engage Thailand more support is still required as the political prosecution continues. You can be part of the fight by contributing now. Your support will help not only the political prisoners but also their family – including children and elderly – who have been forced to struggle without their loved one. 

Above all, your help will send a message that they are not alone.

Learn more about how we help political prisoners