Thailand bans textbook on national security grounds

Bangkok, Thailand – The government has officially banned a textbook titled "Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Thailand" due to concerns over its content related to the Thai monarchy. The decision comes from the Royal Thai Police, led by National Police Chief Samran Nualma, who cited the book's potential to negatively impact national security, public order, and the moral well-being of the population.

The book, edited by Pavin Chachavalpongpun, a respected academic critical of the Thai monarchy residing in Japan, was published in the English language in August. It contains chapters discussing the monarchy's role in the 21st century and the government's application of the lese-majeste law, which prohibits insulting or defaming the king or his family.

Pavin Chachavalpongpun, in a Facebook post, stated that the book was targeted because it delves into extensive material concerning the monarchy. However, he also expressed his surprise that a ban of this nature is effective in the modern age of social media and the internet, suggesting that people may simply opt for an eBook instead of a physical copy.

Notably, Pavin has previously experienced a similar ban for his 2023 publication, "Rama X: The Thai Monarchy under King Vajiralongkorn," which was also deemed insulting to the Thai monarchy. Under Thailand's stringent lese-majeste law, violations can result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years for each offense.