Bangkok: The Foundation for Gender Equality has commended journalists who intervened to prevent a violent incident outside Thonglor Police Station, asserting that their actions do not reflect bias in the media. According to Thai News Agency, the incident involved Mr. Nattawut Wongniem pushing Mr. Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, a former Election Commission member, while he was cycling, resulting in a fall in front of police officers and reporters. Despite a verbal altercation that followed, journalists attempted to de-escalate the situation, though Mr. Nattawut continued to use inappropriate language. Subsequently, Mr. Somchai filed a police report accusing Mr. Nattawut of assault.
Mr. Jadet Chaowvilai, an advisor to the Foundation for Gender Equality, highlighted the importance of the journalists' response, stating that intervening in such situations is a fundamental human duty. He emphasized that violence should not become a norm in Thai society and urged journalists and the public to actively prevent and de-escalate violent incidents. He further stated that this approach should be adopted as an organizational standard to reject violence in all forms.
Associate Professor Dr. Boonyoo Khopornprasert from Krirk University echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the media's role in providing assistance as a humane act and not a breach of neutrality. He stressed the importance of factual reporting without opinion in news stories, suggesting that media outlets have the autonomy to adopt standards for intervention as deemed necessary by their organizational consensus and the severity of incidents.
The broader implication of the media's intervention in violent situations is that it represents a responsible and human response aimed at preventing escalation, rather than bias. The media's role in such contexts is seen as crucial for maintaining peace and safety during potentially volatile situations.