<div> <div>The release of Cambodian political fugitive Sam Serey early on Friday morning earned the praise of the international community while stoking tensions with Cambodian officials. But a researcher at Human Rights Watch is doubtful that his release indicates a broader change in the way Thailand treats refugees and asylum seekers. </div> <div> </div> <div>Thailand released Sam Serey on 27 April to be flown back to Denmark, where he has permanent resident status. Serey was arrested last Wednesday for overstaying his visa. </div></div>

<div>The headline-generating leader of the fledgling Future Forward Party (FFP) is prompting established parties to present younger faces, and progressive values as the general election is expected to be held in February next year. </div> <div> </div> <div>The buzz and optimism surrounding Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, leader of FFP, drew a packed house to a panel discussion on Wednesday night at the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Thailand (FCCT) between the charismatic auto tycoon and new generation representatives from the three established political parties. </div>

<div>Thailand has made notable improvements in eradicating human trafficking and forced labour from the fishing industry, according to UN experts. </div>

<div>The editor of a Chiang Mai lifestyle magazine is facing criminal charges for sharing on Facebook a photo of an oil painting that depicted Chiang Mai's three iconic statues of ancient kings wearing face masks in order to promote an anti-air pollution rally.</div> <div> </div> <div>Pim Kemasingki, a Thai-British national who edits the Chiang Mai Citylife magazine, said she found out she was facing charges from the media reports on Friday. </div>