Bangkok, 26th September 2023— "Media Transformation in Shifting Scenarios," a public forum organised by Prachatai, took note of the challenging landscape faced by mass media workers in an age of political polarisation. Media professionals continue to face multiple threats, from legal restrictions and surveillance to censorship and risks to personal safety. These challenges, in turn, have had a significant impact on media workers’ freedom of expression. The seminar raises a crucial question: following the change of government, can meaningful change be anticipated?

<p>A series of investigative reports on the struggle for bail rights featured in Prachatai English were recognised by Amnesty International Thailand during its 14 February 2023 Human Rights Media Awards 2022 ceremony at the Sukosol Hotel.</p>

<p>A month has passed since police officers stomped and beat reporters while dispersing an APEC 2022 protest. Calls for an investigation by media associations have met with little progress.</p>

<p>Independent photojournalist Natthaphon Phanphongsanon was attacked by 4 men near the Democracy Monument after a protest. Another journalist and a bystander were injured by pro-monarchists in another incident that took place shortly afterward.</p>

<p>According to Khaosod English (KE) News Chief Teeranai Charuvastra, the Charoen Pokphand (CP) group urged the outlet to delete its coverage of the cancellation of a marketing discount campaign on 12-15 February, claiming it was a sensitive issue.</p>