Jailed Thai lawyer wins international rights award; first man from South-East Asian nation to win prestigious title

Arnon Nampa, 40, was named the Asia-Pacific recipient of this year's Front Line Defenders Award for Human Rights Defenders at Risk, becoming the first Thai national to receive the honour. -- Photo: The Nation Thailand/ANN

BANGKOK (AFP): A Thai lawyer jailed for criticising the monarchy has won an international human rights prize in recognition of his efforts to promote freedom of expression and democratic reform.

Arnon Nampa, 40, was named the Asia-Pacific recipient of this year's Front Line Defenders Award for Human Rights Defenders at Risk, becoming the first Thai national to receive the honour.