found here:
http://frogblog-thaidings.blogspot.com/2009....st.html
the rest is just bla bla
http://frogblog-thaidings.blogspot.com/2009....st.html
the rest is just bla bla
It is important to realize that in Thailand nothing detrimental to any business or individual is permissible because of Thailand's strong laws against negative comments about individuals, businesses or officials. Defamation is both a civil and criminal offence in Thailand.
The final judgement can be ANY amount which the court approves, including jail time. It is in line with the perceived amount that the defamatory statements have cost the business. So, if the business claims you have cost them 2 million baht in lost business and reputation, they can then claim this in a civil suit.
Thailand is VERY active now in bringing defamation cases to the courts. With the constant battle between the governments & groups, the courts are establishing precedents that MAY NOT be in line with Western standards of free speech. These precedents WILL be applied to EVERYONE in Thailand.
Also, foreigners are just starting to realize this type of €˜strict' law applies. We are beginning to see more and more defamation suits being brought from foreigners €“ and they are winning.
There is a standard of good taste that needs to be maintained. Some of the posts on Thaivisa.com definitely cross the line. It is one thing to make observations and report in a balanced fashion - but BASHING a business or "singling out" a business person is a definite no-no. All too often I see forum boards being used as a battle ground between businesses/individuals €“ either spamming or trashing. We have been advised to tighten our grip on this type of posting. Eventually someone is going to get pissed off enough to file a lawsuit.
The final judgement can be ANY amount which the court approves, including jail time. It is in line with the perceived amount that the defamatory statements have cost the business. So, if the business claims you have cost them 2 million baht in lost business and reputation, they can then claim this in a civil suit.
Thailand is VERY active now in bringing defamation cases to the courts. With the constant battle between the governments & groups, the courts are establishing precedents that MAY NOT be in line with Western standards of free speech. These precedents WILL be applied to EVERYONE in Thailand.
Also, foreigners are just starting to realize this type of €˜strict' law applies. We are beginning to see more and more defamation suits being brought from foreigners €“ and they are winning.
There is a standard of good taste that needs to be maintained. Some of the posts on Thaivisa.com definitely cross the line. It is one thing to make observations and report in a balanced fashion - but BASHING a business or "singling out" a business person is a definite no-no. All too often I see forum boards being used as a battle ground between businesses/individuals €“ either spamming or trashing. We have been advised to tighten our grip on this type of posting. Eventually someone is going to get pissed off enough to file a lawsuit.
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