19-9-2023 (BANGKOK) Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, the second son of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, has called for open dialogue regarding Thailand’s stringent laws against insulting the royal family. These laws, frequently referred to as Section 112 of the criminal code, provide extensive protection to the king and his immediate family from criticism and carry severe prison sentences.
Vacharaesorn expressed his views after visiting an exhibition in New York that showcased individuals who had been prosecuted under Thailand’s strict royal defamation legislation. In a Thai-language Facebook post, he stated, “As a Thai citizen who loves and respects the monarchy, I believe that ‘knowing’ is better than ‘not knowing.’ Everyone should share their opinions based on different experiences.”
The prince emphasized that ignoring differing opinions does not make them disappear and suggested that listening to them is essential. Vacharaesorn, 42, made an unexpected visit to Thailand in August—his first in nearly two decades—following an extended period abroad after his parents’ separation.
Critics have long criticized the royal insult laws, arguing that they are wielded as a tool to suppress dissent. In 2020, mass protests erupted with thousands demanding reforms to these laws. The progressive Move Forward Party (MFP), which advocated for law revisions, emerged as the party with the most seats in the May national election. However, conservative pro-royalist factions in parliament prevented the MFP from assuming power.
The exhibition, titled “Faces of Victims of 112,” was organized by exiled Thai royal academic Pavin Chachavalpongpun at Columbia University. Pavin confirmed that Vacharaesorn attended the event and expressed his interest in the issue. According to Pavin, the prince believes that despite differing opinions, communication must be established.
The Thai royal family currently faces a sensitive period, with Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, the king’s eldest daughter, still hospitalized after collapsing and losing consciousness in December. The palace has not provided any comments on Vacharaesorn’s visit.
While the king, who has seven children from four marriages, has not officially designated an heir, Thai succession laws traditionally favor sons.
