Media Mudansa (Press Realse)- A Forum and Peace Walk for Justice and Human Rights was held on July 22 in Bangkok, Thailand, to encourage reflection on universal values, including human dignity, fundamental human rights, and fair judicial procedures, amid an environment where information and opinions spread rapidly and often shape public perception.
Religious leaders legal professionals, educators, and students gathered to discuss the significance of justice and human rights from diverse perspectives against the backdrop of growing international attention to due process and human rights.
Participants emphasized that the event was not intended to support any particular religion or individual. Rather, the discussions focused on the universal principles of human rights and due process that should apply equally to everyone.
As part of the discussions, participants examined the recent case of a 95-year-old religious leader in South Korea who was placed in pretrial detention on charges unrelated to violence. The case served as a point of discussion on the principles of the presumption of innocence, proportionality in pretrial detention, and humanitarian considerations for elderly defendants.
International human rights standards—including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and the UN Nelson Mandela Rules—emphasize that pretrial detention should be used only when strictly necessary and that special humanitarian consideration should be given to elderly detainees and individuals with serious health conditions.
A highlight of the event was the joint statement issued by representatives of Thailand’s official interfaith network, which cooperates with the Religious Affairs Department of the Ministry of Culture, and religious leaders representing five major religions—Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Sikhism. In their statement, they reaffirmed the importance of human dignity, fundamental human rights, and fair judicial procedures. They also called for careful, humanitarian consideration and strict adherence to due process regarding the recent case involving the pretrial detention of an elderly individual in South Korea.
Throughout the forum, participants from the religious, legal, and educational sectors emphasized that justice and human rights are universal values that must be upheld by society as a whole. They also discussed the importance of international solidarity based on the universal principles of human dignity and fair procedures that transcend religion and nationality.
As part of the program, participants held a Peace Walk for Justice and Human Rights along Sukhumvit Road near Wat Tad Tong Temple in central Bangkok. During the walk, they conducted a public awareness campaign encouraging respect for human dignity and adherence to due process.
Several participants shared their reflections on the event and the case at its center.
Phra Nattiyakon Wirunpan, Dhammaduta Bhikkhus of Thailand at Wat Mahatad Yuwarat Rangsarit Ratchawora Maha Wihan, said the news of the Chairman’s detention compelled him to speak out. “When I first heard about the Chairman’s detention, I immediately felt that we had to speak out. In fact, situations like this are all too common for religious leaders, regardless of their faith. That is precisely why we all seek justice. We must have the courage to raise our voices for what is right.”
Rev. Dr. Bishop. Joseph Suraphon Boonpratham, President of the Thai Evangelical Alliance Association, called for caution in handling the case of a defendant of such advanced age.
“Pretrial detention of a 95-year-old individual must be decided with the utmost caution. Considering his age, health, and lifelong contributions, I sincerely appeal for compassionate consideration.”
Ms. Mary English, Director of the Peace Messenger Scout, framed the detention as inconsistent with the very values the Chairman has long promoted.
“Detaining a 95-year-old leader while conducting an investigation is not consistent with the principles of human rights. Moreover, as he has devoted his life to promoting peace, such treatment is contrary to the very spirit of peace.”
Their remarks reflected a shared hope that the case would be handled with fairness, transparency, and respect for human dignity.
