Thai Court Sentences US Academic to 15 Years for Insulting Monarchy
BANGKOK — An American academic residing in Thailand faces legal trouble after the Thai army accused him of insulting the country’s monarchy, a serious offense under Thai law. Paul Chambers, a political science lecturer at Naresuan University in Phitsanulok province, received an arrest warrant on Friday, requiring him to appear at the local police station to formally hear the charges. He faces a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years if convicted.
Chambers, who plans to comply with the summons on Tuesday, expressed anxiety. He told The Associated Press:
“I’m basically in limbo because I can’t go anywhere. I’m not supposed to. I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I’m kind of nervous.”
The charges, which include violating the law against defaming the monarchy and the Computer Crime Act, stem from a complaint filed by the regional army command. While the official summons lacks specific details of the alleged offense, Chambers believes they relate to a webinar he participated in last October, during which he discussed the military’s influence on Thai politics. A report from Khaosod English https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/courts/2025/04/04/police-summon-us-scholar-in-thailand-after-army-alleges-he-insulted-the-monarchy/ corroborates this. The summons, signed by Phitsanulok City police chief Watcharapong Sitthirungroj, indicates the warrant was approved by the Phitsanulok Provincial Court on March 31. Attempts to reach the 3rd Army Area, the named plaintiff, and army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree for comment were unsuccessful. Police chief Watcharapong initially denied knowledge of the charges but later declined further comment when presented with evidence of his signature on the document.
This case highlights the sensitivity surrounding Thailand’s lese majeste law, also known as Article 112, which imposes severe penalties for perceived defamation, insult, or threat against the royal family. Critics argue this law, considered one of the strictest globally, is often used to stifle dissent and criticism directed not only at the monarchy but also at the government and powerful institutions like the military.
The military has significantly influenced Thai politics, orchestrating 13 successful coups since the country became a constitutional monarchy in 1932, most recently in 2014. While the lese majeste law has been applied more frequently in recent years amidst political polarization, charges against a foreigner are unusual. Public criticism of the monarchy, once rare, became more prominent during the student-led pro-democracy protests that began in 2020. These protests challenged the traditional taboo, leading to a surge in prosecutions under Article 112. According to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, over 270 people, predominantly student activists, have been charged under this law since early 2020.
What is lese majeste? It refers to the crime of offending the dignity of a sovereign or ruler. In Thailand, this specifically relates to actions deemed insulting to the royal family.
Why is this case significant? It highlights the ongoing tension between freedom of speech and the protection of the monarchy in Thailand. The involvement of a foreign national adds an international dimension.
What could happen next? Chambers must navigate the Thai legal system. The outcome could range from acquittal to a lengthy prison sentence, significantly impacting his future and potentially straining U. S.-Thai relations. The case will likely draw international scrutiny and further fuel debate about the application of lese majeste laws.
