Thai man sentenced to 34 years after monarch criticism in Harry Potter costume
A Thai man received a 34‑year prison term after he questioned the monarchy while dressed as Harry Potter, the BBC reported.
A Thai man received a 34‑year prison term after he questioned the monarchy while dressed as Harry Potter, the BBC reported. The sentence is part of a broader crackdown under Thailand’s lèse‑majesté law, which the BBC said has led to 294 prosecutions since 2020. Penalties under the law can reach up to 50 years in prison. Human‑rights observers have warned that the law curtails free speech, and the latest case highlights the harsh penalties faced by critics of the royal institution.
Why it matters
The case illustrates the extensive reach of Thailand’s lèse‑majesté law and its impact on freedom of expression.
Key details
- Location
- Thailand · Asia
- Reported by
- BBC News
- First reported
- Key names
- Harry Potter
- Section
- World
Sources
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