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Published on July 28, 2007

In its statement, the association said the treatment of reporters by both sides in the ongoing political conflict underlined the fact that divisions caused by Thailand's political crisis posed major obstacles, even threats, to journalists who only wanted to do their job neutrally and professionally.

Protesters have been so hostile to reporters that the latter cannot even identify themselves as journalists for fear of aggression.

Some police officers also assumed that reporters were on the wrong side and did not treat them as messengers of the truth to the general public.

The association called on both sides in the political conflict to understand the task of the media, especially reporters working at the scenes of protests or confrontation.

"We are well aware of the great political divide, which makes it hard for everyone, including reporters, but the fragile situation also cries out for the media to be allowed to do their professional job freely and neutrally without fear of intimidation, so that as much truth can get out to the public as possible," the TJA statement said.

As Thailand moves past all the obstacles to slowly get back to democracy, it is important that the media are allowed to do their work independently and without fear, it said.

The TJA also called on every media organisation to exercise the utmost care and judgement in its coverage and presentation of reports concerning the political conflict.

"We urge all editors to keep in mind the highly sensitive situation Thailand is facing, which requires a good balance of newsworthiness and responsibility.

"Apart from reporting the truth, journalists have a responsibility as Thai citizens to help the country through this very difficult period," the statement read.