Bangkok: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) expressed gratitude to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court for issuing guidelines aimed at preventing Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP). These guidelines are intended to protect human rights defenders, citizens, and media outlets that investigate corruption and safeguard public interest.

According to Thai News Agency, the NHRC issued a statement thanking the Supreme Court President for his recommendations on scrutinizing criminal cases to avert SLAPP lawsuits. The President signed the 2026 Guidelines on Dishonest Conduct in Criminal Cases on May 25, 2026. These guidelines serve as a framework for reviewing the exercise of the right to file criminal cases in good faith, preventing the judicial process from being exploited as a tool to harass or restrict freedom of expression.

The NHRC highlighted the significance of the Supreme Court President's recommendations, noting that in the past, numerous human rights defenders and journalists have faced lawsuits aimed at silencing them. These lawsuits have imposed significant time and financial burdens, undermining their morale and instilling fear. The guidelines outline the characteristics and circumstances suggestive of SLAPP lawsuits, providing a starting point for courts to exercise discretion in reviewing cases that may constitute harassment.

The NHRC has periodically received complaints and has consistently advocated for the acceleration of the draft Anti-SLAPP Law. The commission hopes that the Supreme Court President's recommendations will be utilized in the interim to protect those who scrutinize corruption, misconduct, or express opinions in the public interest.