(BANGKOK, September 29, 2020) – The effective use of social media, traditional media, and modern technology are increasingly critical for human rights defenders. With this in mind, Fortify Rights hosted a two-day workshop in Bangkok for refugee rights defenders in Thailand under the Coalition for the Rights of Refugees and Stateless Persons (CRSP). Seventeen participants from nine organizations attended the event on September 17 and 18.
The seasoned advocates in attendance developed skills in photography and social media and engaging the news media. They discussed utilizing online webinar tools and video conferencing and the importance of visual design in creating positive social change. The workshop also covered ethical and legal considerations in publishing advocacy materials, as the use of criminal defamation and Strategic Litigation Against Public Participations (SLAPP) remain tools to silence human rights defenders in Thailand.
“Together we can help Thailand overcome ongoing violations against refugees,” said Puttanee Kangkun, Senior Human Rights Specialist at Fortify Rights. “These are necessary skills to make positive change happen.”