ENGLISH MAGS ARE BREAKING THE LAW
A significant number of English language magazines being published in Thailand are breaking the law.
An amendment to the kingdom's Publishing Act introduced after the September 2006 coup stated that all publications produced in Thailand must have a Thai national listed as an editor. Publications, in this sense, include newspapers and magazines, and that act remains in force today. There is no difference whether you're a paid-for or free copy publication, the law still applies.
Like most things in Thailand there are ways around this. You can have a Thai as an editor but there's nothing stopping you having a foreign Editor in Chief or Managing Editor.
I can think of at least ten English magazines that are technically breaking this law right now - and it's criminal law so possible penalties include jail, although I am not aware of any incidents where cases have been brought against publishers for a breach of this law.
5 comments:
Why are you hinting at that law? Want your competitor to be locked in jail?
Building up your bad karma ;-P
Not at all, I don't want to see anyone in jail.
Actually, until last week I was under the impression the 'Thai editor' law did not apply to English language magazines. I've now seen, and had translated, a copy of the Act so am highlighting so other publishers are aware.
This doesn't apply to English magazines circulated in Thailand, only for ones produced and printed here.
If this information helps one publisher stay legal then I'm happy.
After all, a Thai national can be named as member on the editorial board, but doesn't necessarily have to do any of the work (no sarcastic connotations intended!). There are thousands of businesses in Thailand that work like this.
There are always ways around things in Thailand and of course we are the land of copy everything too...but interesting how Farang try to be behind things as well....
Are you done blogging? :(
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