The media’s role in public opinion formation is of particular importance. Our media program aims at information democracy, meaning people’s opportunity to select from a diverse range of non-monopolized information services according to their needs and choice. Free access to information, involvement in public media and independent opinion formation are preconditions to people’s participation in democratic decision-making processes.

 

In 2007, Thailand was listed as one of the “top 10 backsliders” in the global press freedom and the country also takes a backseat (135 of 169) in the 2008 ranking of the Annual Worldwide Press Freedom Index. Reasons for such bad ratings are the numerous legal provisions restricting the access to independent information and allowing the government to censor contents that are “dangerous, immoral or insulting the monarchy” or restrictions in the name of national security. Especially internet providers and users have been affected, while the mainstream media has been practicing selfcensorship for years. The recent closure of several community radio stations and websites have further contributed to the country’s negative media image. more››