National —
At 10:00 AM on September 19th, 2024, youth and parent networks submitted a formal letter to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra at Government House, expressing serious concerns over the government’s push for laws supporting integrated entertainment complexes, which include casinos.
The youth networks argued that the rapid promotion of these entertainment complexes to boost tourism could create unsafe environments, particularly for children and families.
The networks highlighted the risks of increasing both legal and illegal gambling, which they believe would lead to financial instability for households and escalate social problems, including family conflicts and violence.
Furthermore, the networks called on the government to halt the progress of the draft bill on entertainment complexes and reconsider policies that promote legalized gambling. They also urged for amendments to outdated gambling laws, such as the 1935 Gambling Act, which they believe no longer aligns with current social challenges.
Additionally, the networks requested a public referendum to gather opinions on these policies, citing the widespread impact they could have on Thai society.
With National Youth Day approaching, they further appealed to the Prime Minister to announce policies supporting the positive development of youth, including the promotion of “edutainment complexes” and stronger child protection measures.
