Nicolaides free, but writers’ persecution persists
Yesterday PPT posted a link to the Australian internet magazine Eureka Street and their reflections on publishing decisions regarding the Nicolaides’ case. Today we draw attention to an article by Arnold Zable in Eureka Street (27 February 2009: “Nicolaides free, but writers’ persecution persists”) that looks more broadly at freedom of speech in Thailand and internationally.
Zable observes that the “release of Harry Nicolaides is a cause for celebration and great relief. Yet it leaves many unanswered questions over the reason for his imprisonment, and also highlights the plight of many other persecuted writers. There is a need for an investigation into the circumstances of Nicolaides’ arrest so that in future the Australian government and the Minister of Foreign Affairs do not again merely resort to the mantra that we cannot interfere with the judicial processes of another country.”
He concludes by noting that “Australian governments also need to be more concerned with the fate of imprisoned writers in countries with which the governments are doing business. Many are courageous individuals who desperately require our representation and support.”
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