Thailand’s Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Suchart Chomklin, has filed new lawsuits against two journalists over reporting linked to Thai berry pickers in Finland, according to Human Rights Watch.
The journalists are Kowit Phothisan and editor-in-chief Hathairat Phaholtap, both from The Isaan Record.
New lawsuits after earlier withdrawal
The move comes just weeks after Suchart had said he planned to drop an earlier lawsuit related to the same issue.
The cases involve reporting on alleged bribery and exploitation tied to Thai workers sent to pick berries in Finland.
Several workers have previously said they worked long hours, earned less than promised, and returned home in debt after paying high fees.
The new cases are based on social media posts sharing reporting about a wider investigation into alleged corruption and human trafficking linked to the berry industry.
Suchart Chomklin says the posts made people believe he was involved in corruption, even though he was not directly named.
He is seeking 50 million baht (USD 1.6 million) from Hathairat Phaholtap and 1 million baht (USD 31,0000) from Kowit Phothisan.
Raise concerns about press freedom
Human Rights Watch has criticised the lawsuits, warning they may be an attempt to silence reporting in the public interest.
“The criminal defamation suits against the journalists Hathairat and Kowit highlight the danger of cases filed in retaliation for reporting on human rights abuses,” said Asia director Elaine Pearson.
Thailand’s National Human Rights Commission has also raised concerns about the growing use of so-called SLAPP cases – lawsuits aimed at intimidating journalists and activists.
Authorities in Thailand are still reviewing allegations linked to the berry picker scheme, including possible involvement of officials.
At the same time, investigations into the treatment of Thai workers abroad remain ongoing.
Related posts:
Thai minister drops lawsuit in case tied to berry pickers in Finland
Former Thai minister lawyers up in Finnish trafficking scandal
New berry trial begins: Olli Sorainen’s trial begins amid bribery and human trafficking scandals
Finnish berry execs on trial for human trafficking, court expects 6-month proceedings
