news 
US ‘alarmed’ after American academic charged with insulting monarchy in Thailand
The United States has expressed alarm and concern over the recent arrest of an American academic for allegedly insulting the Thai monarchy. The individual, Paul Chambers, a lecturer at Naresuan University, is facing charges that could result in a severe sentence.
According to sources, Chambers was taken into custody after being accused of writing and publishing a statement that was deemed offensive by the Thai authorities. The content in question reportedly criticized the monarchy, which has been a sensitive topic in Thailand for years.
The US government has stepped forward to offer support to Chambers, stating its deep concerns over this development. Officials have emphasized the importance of protecting free speech and academic freedom, as well as ensuring the well-being of all individuals involved.
Chambers’ defense team claims that he is innocent and never wrote or published the statement in question. It appears that a court in Thailand had previously ordered another individual to serve an extended sentence for insulting the monarch of up to 50 years.
The situation has sparked widespread debate about the limits of free speech, particularly when it comes to matters related to the monarchy.
Source: https://thehill.com/homenews/education/5240406-paul-chambers-american-academic-insulting-monarchy-thailand/
