BANGKOK, 3 May 2014 – The Thai Journalists Association called on Friday for all types of media to cease the publicizing of discourses centered on political conflicts, which promote hatred and violence.
Association president Pradit Rueangdit addressed the press on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, reminding press members that media organizations were, at on point or another, barricaded by and fell under pressure from supporters of each of the political demonstration groups. Many reporters sustained injuries when covering news at political demonstration venues.
Mr. Pradit said he would like those who worked in all types of media to be aware of the value of press freedom and adhere to the principle of freedom based on responsibility. Thus, the press should cease the production or distribution of discourses that provoke hatred and violence.
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, the Reporters Without Borders organization released its country ranking for press freedom. Of the 180 countries in the ranking, Finland, Netherlands, Norway, Luxemburg, Andorra, Lichtenstein, Denmark, Iceland, New Zealand and Sweden were placed in the top 10 spots. Thailand was placed at the 130th spot, an improvement of 6 spots from last year. Within ASEAN, Thailand was ranked second only to Brunei.
