Thailand bans textbook on national security grounds over monarchy content

Bangkok: Thailand has prohibited a textbook about the nation on national security grounds, due to its content discussing the Thai monarchy, according to the book's exiled editor. The royal family is highly respected in Thai society and is protected from criticism by a stringent defamation law, which critics argue is used to suppress dissent.

The book, a second edition of the Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Thailand, was edited by Pavin Chachavalpongpun, a renowned academic and critic of the Thai monarchy residing in Japan. It includes chapters on the monarchy in the 21st century and the government's use of the lese-majeste law. The first edition, published in 2019, was not banned.

Pavin revealed that the book was revised to incorporate changes in Thai politics following the 2020 youth-led pro-democracy protests, which called for significant reforms, and the subsequent election victory of a progressive party. These events led to the blocking of the pro-democracy movement's candidate from becoming prime minister.

Pavin stated that book bans are a clear sign of Thailand's democracy regressing. The National Police Chief signed an order on Wednesday, citing that the book contains articles that adversely affect national security and might incite unrest in the country. Under the law, anyone found guilty of importing or distributing the book could face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to 60,000 baht (approximately US$1,800), or both.

Pavin believes that book bans are ineffective in the digital age, as people can easily access an e-book. In 2023, his book, Rama X: The Thai Monarchy under King Vajiralongkorn, was also banned in a similar manner. As a former diplomat, Pavin has been living in Japan since a 2014 military coup. He was charged in 2020 for setting up a Facebook group with over two million members, discussing the royal family and the pro-democracy movement's proposals for reforms.

The Deputy government spokeswoman stated that Thailand prioritizes maintaining national security and public order, while respecting freedom of expression and academic freedom.