University press defends withdrawal of book on Thai politics

The National University of Singapore (NUS) Press said on Monday 25 January that its decision to withdraw the publication of a volume of essays titled Coup, King, Crisis: A critical interregnum in Thailand was made after it had consulted with stakeholders inside and outside the university, writes Ang Hwee Min for Channel News Asia.

Its director, Peter Schoppert, said this in response to queries from CNA, after more than 100 academics signed an open letter accusing the university press of withdrawing the publication of the volume, which touches on sensitive aspects of Thai politics, due to “political pressure”.

“NUS Press understands the real concern academics may have over a university press’ late stage decision not to publish. These decisions are not taken lightly, but a university press has many stakeholders inside and outside the university whose concerns have to be considered,” Schoppert told CNA. “That includes of course the scholars who are concerned about our decision, our many publishing partners, commercial partners and so on,” he added.
Full report on the CNA site