Thailand’s Former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has expressed strong opposition to the government’s plan to legalize casinos and online gambling, warning that it will worsen social problems.
According to the Bangkok Post, the criticism was given during a speech at a seminar, where Abhisit described gambling as a “major social problem” that negatively affects individuals and their families.
With the government prioritizing the legalization of casinos and online gambling, Abhisit urged the public to prepare for potential adverse consequences. He argued that the push for legalization lacked a proper public debate, adding, “The government claims that legalizing casinos will generate revenue and create jobs, but we must carefully consider the risks.”
Abhisit particularly voiced concerns about online gambling, which he believes could lead to higher household debt and rising crime rates. He also questioned the benefits for local workers, suggesting that most jobs at casino resorts would likely go to migrant workers from neighboring countries, rather than Thai citizens.
He emphasized the need for strong law enforcement to prevent money laundering in the gambling industry, stating, “Strict oversight is essential to avoid money laundering in casinos and entertainment complexes.”
Public opposition
The push for legalizing casinos was recently furthered by the Pheu Thai Party’s 2023 election campaign. The party argued that regulating gambling would reduce underground activities and generate tax revenue. However, Abhisit noted that the party did not clarify which other activities would be legalized.
Public opposition to the legalization is mounting. A survey by the Center for Gambling Studies found that more than 50 percent of 8,000 respondents opposed the plan to legalize casinos and online gambling. Additionally, 51.07 percent of respondents opposed holding a referendum on the issue, though 37.86 percent supported it.
The government insists that no referendum is necessary, as the policy was part of Pheu Thai’s election platform and has already been approved by Parliament. The Cabinet approved a bill in principle on January 13th to establish casino-entertainment complexes, and it is now under review by the Council of State.
The opposition has been vocal in its criticism of the casino bill. The Thai Sang Thai Party (TST) has pledged to challenge the government’s casino policy, accusing it of masking a push for legalized gambling under the guise of economic development. On February 27th, the opposition plans to file a no-confidence motion against the government, focusing on this issue.
TST leader Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan criticized the bill as “one of the worst pieces of legislation ever written,” warning that it would give politicians too much control over the casino complexes. “This is not about economic growth—it’s about opening the door to legalized gambling with little oversight,” she said.
