Let's explore the definition of “political prisoner,” a term that many might recognize but may not fully understand.
Political offences are not defined in any specific law, nor are they clearly defined internationally. However, in reality, the term “political prisoner” is indeed used, and there are people who are referred to as political prisoners. The imprisonment of individuals for political reasons is not a new phenomenon in today’s world; it is deeply rooted in human history. There are numerous examples showing that the incarceration of individuals for political reasons is often connected to the maintenance of power by those in authority.
What is a “political prisoner”?
Although society today has become more familiar with the term “political prisoner”, its meaning may still confuse many. The term “political prisoner” is used to refer to individuals who are arrested, prosecuted, or imprisoned due to their political beliefs, expressions, or activities that challenge or criticize the authority of the state. In essence, political prisoners are not typical criminals who commit offences defined by law. Instead, they are subjected to legal processes simply for exercising their right to express their own opinions.
The arrest, detention, prosecution, or imprisonment of political prisoners often occurs without fair legal procedures. This can include the use of specially established courts, military courts against civilians, or even torture to force confessions. These actions reflect efforts to silence those who disagree with state authority and suppress political opposition. Such practices are considered serious violations of human rights and democratic principles.
At the same time, the imprisonment of political prisoners may occur through processes that appear “legal” on the surface but are driven by state authorities motivated to suppress or halt political expression. Examples include exaggerated charges, filing charges pre-emptively to burden the legal fight, targeting specific individuals with numerous lawsuits for their activism, or judicial rulings that distort the law or are influenced by those in power.
“Political Prisoner” and “Prisoner of Conscience” (POC)
Another term often used in connection with political prisoners is “prisoner of conscience” (POC). This refers to individuals who are imprisoned or physically restricted due to their expression of opinion, which may differ from those in power or belong to particular ethnicities, genders, races, languages, economic statuses, or lifestyles. Prisoners of conscious do not use or advocate violence or hatred, and are detained simply because of their beliefs.
While political prisoners are detained for their political beliefs or activities that challenge or criticize state authority, prisoners of conscience are individuals who are detained solely for their beliefs, identity, or moral stance—without engaging in violence or using hate speech. Although prisoners of conscience are also considered political prisoners, not all political prisoners qualify as prisoners of conscience, particularly if they support or participate in violent actions.
The issue of political prisoners has evolved over time and within geopolitical contexts. In the past, arrests for political reasons were often associated with dictatorships or authoritarian regimes. However, today, such prosecutions occur even in countries that call themselves democratic. Frequently, political prisoners are charged with criminal offenses, facing fabricated evidence or unfair trials to obscure the political nature of their imprisonment and to silence those who criticize the authorities.
Many political prisoners in Thailand remain incarcerated, facing charges that violate their right to freedom of expression. While understanding the definition and meaning of the term “political prisoner” may not directly lead to legal assistance or change, increased public awareness could help raise consciousness among people in the society. This collective understanding can, in turn, encourage efforts to pressure the government to stop prosecuting citizens who exercise their rights and end the ongoing detentions. Ultimately, this would help create a truly democratic society where people can freely exercise their rights and freedoms.
References:
Pathway to Freedom: Handbook for the Liberation of Political Prisoners โดย World Liberty Congress
The definition of political prisoner https://assembly.coe.int/nw/xml/XRef/Xref-XML2HTML-en.asp?fileid=19150&lang=en
นิยาม “นักโทษทางความคิด” (prisoner of conscience) & “นักโทษทางการเมือง” (political prisoner) ในความหมายของแอมเนสตี้ อินเตอร์เนชั่นแนล http://old.amnesty.or.th/news/press/628
นักโทษทางการเมือง : อดีตและปัจจุบัน https://www.matichonweekly.com/column/article_647812#google_vignette
รายงาน: ตามหานิยาม ‘นักโทษการเมือง’ และเสียงสะท้อนจากห้องขัง https://prachatai.com/journal/2011/12/38467
ว่าด้วยนักโทษการเมือง … https://www.komchadluek.net/news/82648
