[Statement]

The Thai government must immediately stop suppressing Arnon Nampa and guarantee freedom of expression!

We, the May 18 Foundation, condemn the Thai government, which is carrying out ruthless oppression against Arnon Nampa, winner of the 2021 Gwangju Prize for Human Rights and the Thai people.

Arnon Nampa, the winner of the 2021 Gwangju Prize for Human Rights, was indicted on charges of alleged violations of lese-majeste in October 14, 2020, and was confirmed for having tested positive of COVID-19 while in custody for about three months.

Arnon Nampa is not a criminal, but a defender of democracy demanding democratic reform in Thailand through political and monarchy reforms.

The May 18 Foundation denounces the Thai government that has consistently oppressed the pro-democracy movement of its people. The May 18 Foundation will stand in solidarity with the international communities to support Thailand’s democracy.

Stop oppressing the people who fight for political and monarchy reforms!

September 21, 2023

The May 18 Foundation

Network of Laureates of Gwangju Prize for Human Rights(NLG)

Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, W.P.J.Basil Fernando, Korea Association of Bereaved Families for Democracy, Dandeniya Gamage Jayanthi, Wardah Hafiz, Malalai Joya, Irom Sharmila Chanu, Lenin Raghuvanshi, Muneer Malik, Min Ko Naing, Sushil Pyakurel, Binayak Sen, H.I.J.O.S, Adilur Rahman Khan, Mothersof Khavaran, Latifah Anum Siregar, Bersih 2.0, Nguyen Dan Que, Jatupat Boonpattaraksa, Nandana Manatunga, Joanna Carino, Bedjo Untung, Arnon Nampa, Cynthia Maung, Parents Circle Families Forum – Israeli Palestinian Bereaved Families for Peace, Tempo Weekly Magazine, Sombath Somphone, Serge Bambara, Dialita Choir, Watchdoc documentary Maker, Chow Hang-Tung, The Coordination Council of Iranian Teacher Trade Association

※ Inquiries : The May 18 Foundation, The May 18 Glocal Center(062-360-0534)