Statement of the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand  
on
Condemnation of the use of violence against innocent people in a cruel and inhumane manner in economic and tourist areas which seriously violated human rights and preliminary approaches to address the problem

        A series of violent incidents occurred in economic and tourist areas of several southern provinces during the day of 11 August 2016 and continued into the night, resulting in 3 people killed and 44 wounded.  The use of bombing and arson attacks during nighttime by the perpetrators are considered to be the most serious violation of human rights.

        Pursuant to the above-mentioned incidents, the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRCT) strongly condemns these cruel and inhumane acts of violence which violated human rights and humanitarian principles that are universally recognized and must be observed by all sides.  The NHRCT also expresses its condolences to the deceased and their relatives who are affected by these violent incidents.  Such incidents are aimed at inciting panic and fear among the public and undermining confidence in the Thai economy.  Should these incidents continue, it is expected that violence will be spread to other areas.

        The NHRCT, as an organization mandated with the roles and responsibilities of promoting respect and compliance with human rights norms with a view to maintaining peace and order in society where people can live together in harmony, would like to request all parties to take into account and consider implementing the following measures:

        1. The perpetrators who have committed the violent acts against innocent people must immediately stop the said acts regardless of their incentives.  These acts have not only violated human rights but are also unlawful and in contravention of the humanitarian principles.

        2. The NHRCT supports all relevant agencies in their efforts to suppress and prevent the violent incidents which are in breach of the rule of law and the universally recognized humanitarian norms.  It also urges all relevant agencies to expedite the investigation into the incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.

        3. The NHRCT calls on the mass media, both on-line and mainstream, the public and members of the social media to end the dissemination of pictures of those who were killed and injured in different manners as it is not only deemed illegal but also a violation of human dignity.  This is to show respect for the right of the deceased and is based on an understanding and sympathy with their families, relatives and friends.  The respect for human rights should be strictly observed in society.

        The NHRCT will closely monitor the situation and hopes that all parties would do their part in using peaceful means to forge a common understanding.  It is hoped that they would help in suppressing, preventing, resolving and guarding against all potential danger that would affect the lives and properties in order to bring peace to the nation.

    National Human Rights Commission of Thailand
12 August 2016

12/08/2016