With regard to news reports that the Buddhist Leaders and Buddhist Network from different countries, gathered at the 78th Meeting of Global Youth Buddhists Association in Seoul, Republic of Korea, have urged the Royal Thai Government to revoke an Order, which directs at Dhammakaya Temple and was issued under Article 44 of the Constitution, to cease media control and to treat the monks with respect, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to clarify as follows:

                The Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul reported that Buddhists youth associations around the world are participating in the 78th Meeting at Hongbeopsa Temple in Busan, Republic of Korea. The event is organized by Paramita Foundation of the Republic of Korea.  A preliminary verification found that issues regarding the Dhammakaya Temple have not been raised during the meeting. The Royal Thai Embassy will continue to closely follow the meeting for further information.

                 As Buddhist associations and networks from abroad have, over the recent period, sent letters of concerns urging for the revocation of the Order under Article 44 aimed at Dhamakaya temple, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has instructed the Royal Thai Embassies and Royal Thai Consulates around the world to provide information and clarifications to all concerned stakeholders as follows:

                (1) On 15 February 2017, the Head of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) has issued Order No. 5/2560 (2017) on measures regarding the authorization of designated control areas (no-entry zone), namely Dhammakaya Temple and its vicinities,  to improve efficiency in carrying out law enforcement. An outcome of a carefully deliberated process by relevant authorities, the order is based on the fact that several suspects who have been placed under arrest warrants in accordance with the Criminal Procedural Code have refused to cooperate with the authorities, while attempts to carry out official duties had been obstructed by the temple’s devotees. Thus, the major cause of the incident is a violation of the law.

                (2)  The order aims to put in place appropriate measures to control certain areas to enable integrated efforts of relevant authorities in searching and bringing those under warrants to justice. Additionally, it intends to ensure utmost protection to the lives and properties of innocent people in the areas. These measures are temporary and will be enforced only when necessary.

                (3) Relevant authorities have carried out their duties in a prudent and appropriate manner, in line with legal procedures and in accordance with international practices so as to maintain peace and order in the country.