Amnesty International on Friday condemned Thailand’s charges against activist and conscientious objector Netiwit Chotiphatphaisal, who is facing trial on September 9 for refusing military conscription. The group demanded that Thailand drop all charges, warning that the prosecution is violating international human rights law. Netiwit, a former Amnesty International Thailand board member, risks three years in prison under Article 45 of the 1954 Military Conscription Act.

Montse Ferrer, Amnesty International’s regional research director, stressed that international law demands alternatives to compulsory military service for conscientious objectors. He stated: “Netiwit’s refusal to participate in this outdated system should urge Thai authorities to reform the country’s legal framework to al

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