The Role of Internet Law Reform Dialogue (iLaw): The Emergence of the Public Sphere in Thai Politics and Society During the Period 2009-2020

Abstract

The objectives of this research article were as follows: 1) To study laws affecting the restriction of freedom and political expression in Thai politics during the period 2009 to 2020. 2) To study The role of Internet law reform dialogue(iLaw) as a public organization, and its roles in Thai society. The study utilized a quality research method including documentary research and in-depth Interviews.The research encompassed documentary analysis of Thai law, Document relation Internet law Reform Dialogue (iLaw) and other pertinent sources. in-depth interviews were conducted with three distinct groups of key informants: six members of Internet law Reform Dialogue (iLaw), four academics, twenty individuals, totaling thirty participants.

The results of the research revealed that: 1) There are laws regulating the political sphere the period from 2009 to 2020 which can be categorized into four groups: (1) Laws related to public movements; (2) Laws pertaining to print and media; (3) Laws governing online communities; and (4) Security Laws. 2) Internet Law Reform Dialogue (iLaw) supports civil society politics by exchanging knowledge on legal issues among the public. They also play a role in organizing the collection of opinions and names of individuals involved in political movements to express their political s views and negotiate with the state. Furthermore fulfill, the following roles: 1) supporting and expressing political opinions, 2) political activities, and 3) serving as a platform for the exchange of knowledge and collecting public comments.