Thailand faces a gambling crisis, with nearly 5 million youth involved in gambling. Experts discussed solutions at a forum hosted by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation.
With nearly 5 million children and young people involved in various forms of gambling, Thailand is facing a growing gambling crisis that poses serious risks to its youth and broader society, according to health experts and academics at a recent forum. The country is confronting the urgent need for action to curb the damaging effects of this rising trend.
The forum, titled “Gambling Risk Society: Betting on the Future,” was hosted by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation in collaboration with the Centre for Gambling Studies at Chulalongkorn University. The event, held at the Mandarin Samyan Hotel in Bangkok, aimed to raise awareness and develop strategies to combat gambling-related issues, with a particular focus on vulnerable populations, including children and young adults.
Recent studies presented at the forum, which was reported by the Thai publication The Nation, revealed alarming statistics regarding gambling in Thailand.
Research indicates that over 6 million people in Thailand are at risk of developing gambling-related problems. Experts have cautioned that the establishment of "entertainment complexes," especially casinos, could become hubs for illegal activities such as money laundering. They urge caution in approving such establishments, highlighting the potential risks they pose to both individuals and the broader financial system.
According to a study led by Assoc. Prof. Nualnoi Treerat from the Centre for Gambling Studies, over 7,000 individuals aged 15 and above were surveyed across 24 provinces between November 15 and 27, 2023. The results highlighted the extent of gambling involvement, with 99.3% of respondents aware of someone participating in gambling activities. Among them, 21% were children (aged 15-18) and 26% were youth (aged 19-25).
The data shows that around 1.06 million children between the ages of 15 and 18 are currently involved in gambling, while approximately 3.92 million youth in the 19-25 age range are similarly engaged. Both figures have increased since 2021, raising concerns about the long-term impact of gambling on young people.
In addition to these figures, the research revealed that nearly 45 million people in Thailand are experiencing the negative consequences of gambling, ranging from financial difficulties and deteriorating mental health to strained family relationships and social isolation.
Online Gambling and Technology’s Role
One of the key points discussed at the forum was the growing influence of online gambling platforms. Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, the director of the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, emphasized the role of technology in facilitating gambling behavior. He explained that online gambling platforms, which operate around the clock and often offer promotions, make it easier for individuals to gamble without limitations.
Wongwatcharapaiboon warned that continuous gambling can lead to addiction, a psychiatric disorder similar to substance abuse. “If you gamble continuously, you lose the ability to control yourself, which is a danger sign,” he said. “This can lead to gambling addiction, affecting individuals, families, and communities.”
The rise of online gambling has exacerbated the problem, making it more accessible and difficult to regulate. Many young people are drawn to these platforms, which often promise quick rewards and excitement. However, the consequences of developing a gambling addiction can be devastating, not only for the individuals involved but for their families and society as a whole.
Concerns Over the Legalization of Gambling
Another major topic discussed at the forum was the proposal to expand legal gambling in Thailand, particularly through the creation of casinos and the legalization of football betting. This proposal has generated significant public concern, with more than half of Thai respondents expressing opposition to the idea. Many worry that legalizing gambling would lead to an increase in gambling-related problems, particularly among vulnerable groups such as youth.
Asst. Dr. Natchapol Jittirat, a faculty member at Chulalongkorn University, raised important issues regarding the Comprehensive Entertainment Venue Act, which aims to regulate the operation of casinos in Thailand. While proponents argue that legalizing gambling could boost the economy, Jittirat highlighted the risks involved. He pointed out that casinos are often used as venues for money laundering, which could undermine Thailand’s efforts to combat financial crime.
“Casinos are often used as money laundering facilities,” Jittirat noted, stressing the need for strict regulation to prevent criminal activities. He warned that lax oversight could put Thailand’s international standing at risk. Specifically, the country could face consequences from international bodies like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which monitors money laundering and terrorist financing activities. If Thailand were placed on the FATF’s Grey List, it could face economic sanctions and reduced access to international trade and investment.
Mental Health Support and Prevention Strategies
The forum also highlighted the insufficient availability of mental health resources for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Over 6 million people in Thailand are considered to be at high risk of developing problematic gambling behaviors. However, mental health support services for these individuals are still lacking. Many gamblers do not seek help until their issues have already severely impacted their lives.
Experts at the conference called for greater investment in mental health resources and better prevention strategies to address the root causes of gambling addiction. This includes educating the public, particularly young people, about the dangers of gambling and offering support for those who need it.
A Call for Comprehensive Policy Changes
As the gambling crisis continues to grow, stakeholders are advocating for comprehensive policy changes to address the issue. These include stricter regulations on gambling platforms, especially online sites, and more robust measures to protect vulnerable populations from the negative impacts of gambling.
The Thai Health Promotion Foundation and the Centre for Gambling Studies emphasized the need for collaboration between the government, public health organizations, and the community to create effective strategies. The ultimate goal is to protect young people from falling into the trap of gambling addiction while ensuring that the broader social and economic impact of gambling is minimized.
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