Amnesty International: On 29 October 2020, pro-democracy protesters gathered around Bangkok’s Silom Road to call for political reforms. As part of the demonstration, protestors held the ‘People’s Runway’, a mock fashion show aimed to present a satirical take on the role of the monarchy in Thailand. Noppasin ‘Sainam’ Treelayapewat was one of the models who walked the runway in a black crop-top.

Sainam faces various charges for taking part in the satirical runway, including lèse-majesté under Article 112 of the Thai Criminal Code. Under this law, anyone convicted of defaming, insulting or threatening the king, queen, heir-apparent or regent may be given a jail term from three to 15 years.

Ahead of the expected verdict on Thursday (20 July) against Noppasin ‘Sainam’ Treelayapewat, a young activist who faces up to 15 years imprisonment, accused of lèse-majesté – or insulting the monarchy – for taking part in a mock fashion show when he was 16 years old, Amnesty International’s Regional Researcher for Thailand Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong said: “Sainam should not be facing any charges or punishment, yet these proceedings could result in years of his freedom stolen, simply for taking part in a satirical fashion show during a peaceful protest when he was under 18 years old. The multiple criminal charges against Sainam yet again highlight how Thai authorities are robbing many children of their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.“

Read full article: Thailand: Drop ‘insulting the monarchy’ charge against child protester involved in mock fashion show

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