Chaiyong, a 68-year-old veteran, holds distinguished titles: chairman of the Southern Newspaper Association of Thailand and head of the Daily News Southern Office. Reflecting on his career beginning in 1974, he emphasized the stagnation in the welfare of local journalists—particularly those operating as news stringers or local correspondents. The grind remains unchanged; the vast majority—95% to be precise—endure the uncertainties of freelance work, relying on the publication of their pieces to earn a living.
“Being a local journalist often feels akin to volunteering, especially with the prevalent wage cuts,” Chaiyong remarked. Payment hinges on whether their news stories make it to newspapers, radio, or TV—an increasingly rare prospect in the shifting media landscape. This precarious situation forces many to juggle multiple gigs, often striving for ethical integrity amidst their struggles.
The grim reality paints a portrait of stringers trying to work with numerous outlets simultaneously; some are even associated with six television channels at once! This hustle culture sometimes nudges them towards unsavory side businesses to survive. Chaiyong is determined to bridge the gap—acting as a mediator—to foster a symbiotic relationship between local and professionally trained journalists and significantly better their circumstances.
Meanwhile, Sen Tewarit Maneechai, a former editor-in-chief of Prachatai, expressed his ambitions to advocate for journalists through legislative channels. He planned to join the House Committee on Political Development, Mass Communications, and Public Participation, as well as the Committee on Human Rights. His key objective revolves around pushing for journalism protection laws, notably the Anti-Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (Slapp) Bill. This legislation aims to safeguard smaller media entities and individual journalists from being intimidated by powerful public or business sectors for merely reporting the news.
With such driven individuals at the helm, the Group 18 senators harbor hopes of fostering a more secure, respected, and just working environment for journalists across Thailand. Their combined experience and dedication could very well be the catalyst needed to usher in a new era for media professionals. The challenges are manifold, but with seasoned veterans like Chaiyong and Tewarit at the forefront, the future of journalism in Thailand stands at the cusp of transformative change.
It’s about time someone addressed the journalist welfare issue in Thailand. Kudos to Chaiyong!
Agree with you, but will it really bring substantial change or is it just empty promises?
Good question, Media Guy. It’s true that actions speak louder than words, but at least it’s a start!
Given Chaiyong’s experience, I believe he genuinely wants to improve things for journalists. Only time will tell.
Let’s not forget that politicians often have hidden agendas. Are we sure Chaiyong’s actions don’t benefit him personally?
Whether his intentions are pure or not, journalists desperately need better working conditions.
Why don’t these journalists just find better jobs? There’s no need to stay in a profession that doesn’t pay well.
Mario, that’s easier said than done. Journalism is not just a job, it’s a calling for many people.
People stay because they believe in the importance of a free press. Not everything is about the money.
Mario, while it might seem simple from the outside, finding a job that matches one’s skills and passion isn’t easy.
I understand passion, but sometimes practicality has to take the lead. Why struggle when there are other options?
The SLAPP bill is crucial. Journalists shouldn’t be intimidated for doing their jobs.
Absolutely, Sam. SLAPP lawsuits are a major threat to free speech everywhere.
True, but are these laws really going to be enforced effectively? That’s the real question.
That’s a valid concern, DarkKnight007. But we have to start somewhere, don’t we?
Tewarit Maneechai has always been an advocate for journalists. His commitment to the Anti-SLAPP bill shows he hasn’t changed.
It’s reassuring to see someone consistent in their beliefs and actions. We need more like him in politics.
Journalists facing ‘wage cuts’ sounds too familiar everywhere. Thailand is no exception.
Yes, it’s a global issue. The media industry is suffering immense financial pressure worldwide.
Yet, the content standards are expected to remain high. It’s an impossible situation.
These changes are long overdue. I hope Chaiyong can deliver real improvements for local journalists.
I fear it might be too little too late. The media landscape has changed so much.
Isn’t it optimistic to expect radical improvements soon? These things take time and effort.
Legislation is a good start, but we need the media companies themselves to change their exploitative practices.
I think Chaiyong is more focused on local journalists, but national and international correspondents also need support.
Journalism is essential for democracy. Supporting journalists is supporting the truth.
Chaiyong has my vote. This is a serious issue that affects how informed our society can be.
I doubt this is going to be the game-changer for journalism in Thailand. The problems are deep-rooted.
Any improvement at this point is better than the status quo.
Focusing on journalist welfare is all well and good, but what about holding media companies accountable?