American Scholar Detained in Thailand for Insulting Monarch Released on Bail

Dr. Chambers, an academic at Naresuan University, has been released on bail but faces ongoing legal concerns and restrictions.

Paul Chambers, an American lecturer in political science at Naresuan University, has been granted bail by a Thai court after several days of detention on charges of insulting the monarchy, a situation that raised alarms among U.S. officials. The legal aid group representing him confirmed the news early Thursday.

Upon his arrest, Thai authorities confiscated Chambers' passport and fitted him with an ankle monitor, pending a decision on whether formal charges will be filed. Akarachai Chaimaneekarakate, an attorney from Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, indicated that Chambers has denied the allegations against him, asserting that he did not publish any material that defamed the king.

Initially, Chambers' requests for bail were denied, but the appeals court allowed his release late Wednesday night, setting the bail amount at 300,000 baht, roughly equivalent to $8,800. His lawyers argued that he poses no flight risk due to his deep connections in Thailand, where he has lived for over thirty years.

Despite being released, Chambers faces strict conditions; he is unable to leave Thailand without permission from the court and must report to immigration officials every month. Additionally, his visa has been revoked, and deportation remains a potential outcome.

Thailand's lèse-majesté laws are one of the strictest globally, prohibiting any disrespect towards the monarchy, with severe penalties ranging from three to fifteen years in prison. It is uncommon for a foreign national to be prosecuted under these laws, which underscores the significance of Chambers' case.

John Yoon contributes to this coverage from Seoul, focusing on developing news stories.