A free media, or a govt information service? 
By Attayuth Bootsripoom
The Nation
 

 

BANGKOK: -- The Thai media is taking a severe beating on two fronts – finances and credibility. Public faith in news outlets has sunk so low that even the looming possibility of state control has done little to rouse sympathy for the media.

 

The National Reform Steering Assembly’s committee on media reform claims its draft law will protect media rights and freedoms as well as boosting professional and ethical standards in journalistic practice. Media organisations disagree and have launched a vigorous campaign against what they say is illegitimate interference in the basic right of free expression. 

 

Elsewhere opinion has split into two camps, though neither have much sympathy for the media.

 

On one side, supporters of the ruling military clique are voicing strong support for a law that would broaden the junta’s tight grip to encompass journalists.

 

Full story: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/news/national/30305476

 

-- © Copyright The Nation 2017-02-02

The entire Thai media should just down tools for 2 weeks....go on strike and report zero news from the junta

2 hours ago, webfact said:

A free media, or a govt information service? 

A free media or a government rubber stamp?

The whole world has a dim view of the Thai media.  Ranked 136 out of 180 countries.  It is shameful for a country that has had peace for over 70 years to have that short of ranking. 

Well the media here is not that good obviously, but that should not mean the government should take control either, seems like another step in the direction of a permanent dictatorship.

If Thai media is serious about their beating from the government - Protest enmass in the streets or at Government House. Not just quibble politically-correct words from the safety of your offices or homes. I'm sure Students for a New Democracy will help swell your ranks. Risk comes with democracy.

8 hours ago, ChrisY1 said:

The entire Thai media should just down tools for 2 weeks....go on strike and report zero news from the junta

No reason why they can't report on the latest murder in Korat, say, but yes, thin skinned people like the junta would hate being not reported on. It's just a shame that your suggestion will not be acted upon and journalists will no doubt meekly take it up the back passage like everyone else and even say thankyou if the junta demands it.

12 hours ago, webfact said:

as well as boosting professional and ethical standards in journalistic practice.

Determined by whom?????

12 hours ago, webfact said:

On one side, supporters of the ruling military clique

Put your hands up please so I can count them on one hand. 

A free media, or a govt information service? 
 

 

Multiple choice?

 

Sure beats sharp sticks under the fingernails.