Head of UN agency promoting press freedom condemns murder of Thai journalist

The head of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has deplored the murder of Thai journalist, while stressing that it is vital for the future of press freedom in the South-East Asian nation for the perpetrators of the attack to be brought to justice.

“I condemn the killing of Jaruek Rangcharoen,” UNESCO Director-General Koïchiro Matsuura said in a statement issued today, adding that crimes against journalists undermine society as a whole, given that freedom of expression and press freedom are “essential for democracy and rule of law.”

Mr. Rangcharoen, 46, reported on corruption for the Matichon newspaper. He was shot in the head several times on 27 September in the province of Suphan Buri in central Thailand.

“It is important for the future of press freedom in Thailand that the perpetrators of this reprehensible crime be brought to justice,” said Mr. Matsuura, who commended the authorities for the speedy launch of an investigation into the attack.

UNESCO is the only UN agency with a mandate to defend freedom of expression and press freedoms.