Investigative Journalist Faces Criminal Defamation Charges in Thailand

Press freedom groups warn lawsuit could threaten investigative reporting in Southeast Asia.

Investigative journalist Tom Wright is facing criminal defamation charges in Thailand over reports linking a Thai politician to alleged money laundering connected to regional scam networks. The lawsuit was filed by former deputy finance minister Vorapak Tanyawong and reportedly seeks $1.5 million in damages. The Committee to Protect Journalists condemned the case, describing it as an attempt to silence public-interest journalism. Rights groups say Thailand’s criminal defamation laws and SLAPP cases create a chilling effect on investigative reporting involving powerful political and business figures.

To read the full story: https://www.tjcproject.org/investigative-journalist-tom-wright-faces-criminal-defamation-case-in-thailand/