Thailand has banned a forthcoming book titled "Rama X: The Thai Monarchy under King Vajiralongkorn" by editor Pavin Chachavalpongpun before its publication. The ban, announced in the Royal Gazette, prohibits the order and import of the book, citing concerns about defamation towards the royal family from the government of Thailand. 

Kristenn Einarsson, Chair of the IPA’s Freedom to Publish Committee said: Banning a book prior to publication clearly prevents the free exchange of ideas that any society needs. The IPA urges the Thai authorities to reconsider this ban as well as its defamation laws.

The chilling effect of defamation laws on freedom of expression is of great concern to the IPA as highlighted at our session during London Book Fair alongside other book sector partners. A recent study by the Coalition Against SLAPPs in Europe suggested cases in the region were also rising.