BANGKOK, Thailand – September 19 – A coalition of youth networks, including “New Generation Without Gambling,” “Youth Network Reducing Risk Factors,” “Bangkok Dee Jung Network,” “Youth Club,” “Dek Mee Phum Network,” and “Young Health Communicators,” along with parent organizations from various educational institutions, submitted a letter to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The group expressed deep concern over the government’s entertainment complex policy, which includes plans for legal casinos, and called for an immediate halt to any related legislation.
The letter was submitted as part of a protest on the eve of National Youth Day (September 20). To symbolize their opposition, the group presented a casino model as a form of rejection of the policy. The youth coalition emphasized that as the future of the nation, their voices must be heard regarding the potential harm of legalized gambling. unsafe
Ravisut Kanitkonset, coordinator of the “Dek Mee Phum Network,” highlighted that the Prime Minister’s policy address to parliament on September 12 included plans to bring informal and underground economies into the formal tax system (policy no. 4) and to promote tourism by supporting new industries like entertainment complexes (policy no. 7). These initiatives, he argued, would likely lead to an increase in legal gambling venues, creating unsafe environments for children, youth, and families.
Ravisut raised concerns that legalized casinos would exacerbate household financial instability, increase wealth inequality, and lead to more people struggling with gambling addiction. He warned of the social issues that could arise, including family conflicts, violence, and a growing desire among the population to seek “quick rich” rather than pursue meaningful employment.
Wasinee Sansaep, coordinator of the “New Generation Without Gambling,” urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn to reconsider her stance as a mother and a leader who influences families across the country. The youth coalition presented three key demands:
- Reevaluate the government’s support for legalized online gambling and casinos by halting the progression of the “Integrated Entertainment Complex Business Act” and any other related measures that promote gambling.
- Reform outdated gambling laws, especially the Gambling Act of 1935, which is no longer in sync with modern societal needs. They called for the establishment of an independent regulatory body with sufficient power and credibility to oversee gambling, with a focus on protecting youth from harm rather than prioritizing economic gains.
- On National Youth Day, the group urged the Prime Minister to announce policies that actively support youth development. This includes encouraging private and public sectors to foster positive environments for young people, while ensuring the government enforces stronger measures to protect the welfare of children and youth.
Sompat Nilphan, an advisor to the Office of the Minister, accepted the letter on behalf of the Prime Minister and government representatives. (TNA)
