gisw13_chapters

society that discourages open talk about sexuality.• The internet gives LGBT people a space wherethey can relax from social constraints and alsoempowers them by connecting them with peersfor peer counselling or creating activist groupsagainst discrimination or for STIs awareness.• Cyberspace offers the “others” who do notconform to the norm a space to explore theirsexualities, meet people with the same interestsand even use the internet to enjoy sexualfreedom, all of which is obstructed in the offlineworld.Action steps• Sexuality has to do with personal taste and thisshould be a clearly guaranteed right in the constitutionregardless of “public morality”, whichis subjective and tends to be interpreted from aconservative point of view.• Instead of suppressing sexual activities, servicesand products, forcing users to go underground,the Thai authorities should decriminaliseand regulate them in order to better controlstandards, safety and the age of consumers andproviders.• The Computer Crime Act should be amended todecriminalise pornography and obscene websites,but establish measures, such as age verification,to regulate access to this content.• Internet literacy should be included in the educationalcurriculum so teens can understand therisk of posting their photos or personal informationon the internet, and know how to controlany damage that may result.• The Thai authorities should establish a centre toreceive complaints and provide remedial measuresfor those (especially minors) who sufferfrom abuse online. ■• The Thai authorities should change their attitudetoward sexuality, from control and suppressionto tolerance and regulation.228 / Global Information Society Watch