An Emerging Public Service Broadcaster in Asia

Thai Public Broadcasting Service (Thai PBS)

Legacy of Thailand’s 2007 coup

Broadcasters now ‘in a state of fear’Senator Chumpol Silapa-archa yesterday warned Thaksin government political

reforms could be derailed if it tried to muzzle the local press.

Published on August 21, 2001

Thaksin pressured me todrop column, says editorNaew Na is the first media outlet to directly link the government

and Thaksin to interference in press freedoms

Published on March 13, 2002

How TPBS is financed...

Excise tax on alcohol and tobacco (1.5%)

US$50 million/year Donations and service

charges No commercials

Thai PBS objectives…

To encourage public awareness and participation in the building of a just and democratic society through bold and impartial reporting with public interest at its heart.

To educate, inform and entertain every sector of the society with an aim of promoting quality citizenry.

To inspire, and encourage imagination and creativity.

To contribute to a sense of identity, cultural diversity and unity within the Thai society.

To reflect social diversity and provide space for minorities and special sectors with an aim of promoting public participation both at the local and national levels.

Thai PBS was created in the midst of Thailand’s worst political crisis in recent history.

Key element of Thai PBS: Public participation

Public participation

Public consultations Citizen networks Audience council Citizen reporters

Thank you…