"You Must Love Me: The Enforcement of Royal Reverence in Thailand"

"You Must Love Me: The Enforcement of Royal Reverence in Thailand" with Pavin Chachavalpongpun

Summary:

Following the 2014 military coup in Thailand, the royal institution and its military allies intensified a campaign to enforce absolute devotion to the crown, using Article 112 (the strict lèse-majesté law) to criminalise any critique of the monarchy. Taking its title from the concept of compulsory affection, this talk examines the entrenched political power of the Thai monarchy, the legal mechanisms used to legislate love and silence dissent, and the ongoing struggle for democratic reform. Tailored for a British audience, the lecture draws a sharp contrast between Thailand’s sacrosanct, coercive royalism and the dynamics of a modern constitutional monarchy in the United Kingdom. Bringing together academic analysis and firsthand experience as an exiled political dissident, this session explores how digital activism and transnational movements are actively challenging one of the world’s most fiercely protected institutions.

Bio:

Pavin Chachavalpongpun is a Professor at the Centre for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS), Kyoto University, Japan, and a Research Associate at SOAS, University of London. Receiving his PhD from SOAS, Pavin is the author and editor of numerous books including Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Thailand (2026) and Kings in the American Mirror: Two Centuries of U.S.-Thai Monarchy Relations (2027). A former Thai diplomat, his research and public advocacy focus on the Thai monarchy, human rights, and freedom of expression in Southeast Asia. Following the 2014 military coup in Thailand, his vocal criticism of the royal institution led the junta to revoke his passport and issue a warrant for his arrest, forcing him to seek political asylum in Japan. He is also the founder of 112WATCH (112watch.org), an online platform monitoring the enforcement of Thailand's lèse-majesté law. Beyond academia, Pavin is a prominent voice for political reform, engaging a platform of nearly one million followers across Southeast Asia and the global diaspora.

Venue:
Blue's Kitchen Brixton, 40 Acre Ln, London SW2 5SP

Event Running Time:
(We recommend arriving early if you're ordering food at the venue!)
Doors from 7pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm
Finish: 8:30pm

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds up to 24 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet/baby friendly?

Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.

Is the venue accessible?

All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.