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#NewReportAlert š¢ Thailandās Internet Freedom & Political Landscape: Limited, Not Free š¹š
#NewReportAlert š¢ Thailandās Internet Freedom & Political Landscape: Limited, Not Free š¹š
Global internet freedom declined for the 14th consecutive year, with conditions worsening in 27 countries and improving in only 18, according to Freedom on the Net 2024: The Struggle for Trust Online, released by Freedom House on October 16, 2024. The report highlights that governments in 25 of the 72 countries analyzed imposed internet shutdowns or restricted access to information around elections, often aiming to influence outcomes.
In Thailand, internet freedom remains heavily restricted, with pro-democracy activists and journalists facing arrests, surveillance, and lĆØse-majestĆ© charges that carry severe prison sentences for online content critical of the monarchy.
Manushya Foundation, as the co-author of the 2024 Freedom Of the Net Thailand Country Report, found that strict regulations and controls over online content remain firmly in place. Laws such as lĆØse-majestĆ© and those related to national security continue to be enforced, significantly limiting online freedoms and restricting critical discourse. We observed that these legal frameworks are consistently applied, targeting individuals who express dissenting views or criticize the monarchy. The lack of transparency around content takedowns and government surveillance fosters a climate of uncertainty and self-censorship among users.Ā
This trend is part of a broader global escalation in digital repression, where governments increasingly resort to arrests, violence, and other forms of suppression outside of electoral contexts. In 56 countries, people were detained for political, social, or religious expression, while a record 43 countries reported physical attacks or killings linked to online activities, often in conflict zones where internet shutdowns isolate civilians, block journalists, and obstruct essential aid efforts.
Furthermore, the rapid rise of generative AI is becoming a significant challenge worldwide, particularly in the context of political campaigns and information integrity. While AI offers tools for engaging content creation and bypassing censorship, it is increasingly exploited to spread disinformation and manipulate public opinion. This unregulated environment allows malign actors to generate deceptive content, making it harder for people to discern truth from lies online.Ā
As AI continues to shape the digital landscape, protecting digital freedom has never been more critical. Holding governments and tech companies accountable for transparency and responsible AI use is essential to safeguard free expression and prevent the erosion of trust in online spaces.
Therefore, the need to protect digital freedom has never been more pressing. Around the world, people face growing risks simply for expressing their views online, while AI continues to reshape the digital and political landscape. It is crucial that we come together as a global community to advocate for stronger protections that ensure everyone can speak freely without fear of retaliation. We must hold governments and tech companies accountable, demanding greater transparency and respect for individual rights. Equally important is supporting those who courageously speak out despite the risks, as their voices are essential to preserving an internet where open dialogue can thrive without fear.
#WeAreManushyanĀ ā¾ Equal Human Beings
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