Thailand: WPF Vehemently Condemns Senior Thai Politician for Slapping Duangporn Yiampop
Appalling behavior of elected official toward a woman reporter doing her job is unacceptable
Location: Thailand, Bangkok
Date: August 16, 2024
Women Press Freedom strongly condemns the assault on Thai journalist Duangporn Yiampop by General Prawit Wongsuwon, a 79-year-old politician and former deputy leader of Thailand’s junta regime. Wongsuwon lashed out in anger when Yiampop, a reporter for Thai Public Broadcasting Service (Thai PBS), approached him with a question. The politician, who later claimed that he “didn’t mean it” and “had no ill intentions,” demonstrated an unacceptable disregard for the fundamental rights of journalists. As a senior political figure, he should be held to a higher standard, not only as a representative of the people but also in upholding democratic values, including press freedom. Resorting to violence, particularly toward a woman reporter, is a gross violation of these principles. We call on the Thai government, media organizations, and civil society to demand an official investigation and take immediate action against Wongsuwon. Protecting the freedom of the press is essential to preserving democracy and the public’s right to information—no one is above the law.
On August 16, 2024, Duangporn Yiampop, alongside other journalists, gathered to question politician General Prawit Wongsuwon regarding his absence from a critical parliamentary vote to elect the new prime minister.
Instead of responding, the retired soldier struck the journalist twice on the head and muttered under his breath in clear annoyance "What are you asking?”
The appalling attack was captured on video and has been widely circulated on social media, sparking outrage.
Wongsuwon, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPP), later claimed he did not intend to harm Duangporn Yiampop, stating that he often teases reporters. However, media organizations have rejected this defense, labeling his actions as intimidation.
The Thai Broadcast Journalists Association and the News Broadcasting Council of Thailand are calling for an investigation, citing potential violations of the MPs' code of conduct. Thai PBS, Yiampop's employer, has also demanded accountability, condemning the assault as a direct attack on journalistic integrity.
This incident highlights the dangerous working environment faced by journalists, especially women, in Thailand. Press freedom in the country is already under strain, with journalists constantly navigating a hostile and restrictive atmosphere. Women in the field endure additional challenges due to gender-based discrimination and violence. Such aggressive actions exacerbate the risks they face and further suppress their ability to carry out their work freely and safely.
Women Press Freedom stands in full solidarity with Duangporn Yiampop and demands immediate accountability for Wongsuwon’s unprovoked assault. We call on the authorities in Thailand to take swift action to address this blatant violation and to ensure the safety and protection of journalists who remain vulnerable to violence and intimidation. No politician or individual should be allowed to target the press with violence and get away with it. Thailand’s democratic institutions must uphold the rights of the press and protect the freedom of information for its citizens.
Women Press Freedom is an initiative by The Coalition For Women In Journalism
The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.
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