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Report Thai Minister Urges Public to Halt Handouts to Reduce Begging
Picture courtesy of The Borgen Project In a surprising move, Thailand's Minister of Social Development and Human Security, Varawut Silpa-archa, has urged the public to stop giving money to beggars, especially in key tourist spots like Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Chon Buri. His remarks aimed to address the growing visibility of street begging, which he believes is exacerbated by well-meaning but counterproductive generosity. “Begging has existed for years,” Varawut stated, “but it’s important to understand that it’s illegal under Thai law.” His comments highlight a persistent problem that’s become more prominent in bustling tourist areas. The minister pointed out that many beggars belong to organised networks. When apprehended, foreign beggars are deported, while Thai nationals are referred to Homeless Protection Centres. These centres provide training and support, aiming to reintegrate individuals into society. However, attendance isn’t mandatory, allowing those who refuse to return to the streets. Recent data from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) identified over 2,499 homeless individuals nationwide, with hotspots in major cities. An academic review suggests the number could exceed 4,500, according to various records. Varawut cautioned that donations often encourage more people to engage in begging—sometimes earning more than the tourists themselves. “In many cases, beggars may have more savings than the donors. Please do not let your goodwill support illegal activities or organised begging networks,” he warned. Critics argue that the government's approach focuses more on reducing the visibility of homelessness rather than addressing its root causes. Many social workers believe that treating homelessness as a mere public nuisance, instead of a pressing human rights issue, hinders genuine progress. They advocate for policy shifts towards supporting the vulnerable rather than merely controlling them. Varawut’s statements underscore an ongoing struggle between humanitarian efforts and legal enforcement. Simply cracking down on begging without viable alternatives could push vulnerable people further into hardship. The call to action for the public is clear—ceasing handouts might be a step towards dismantling organised networks, but without comprehensive support systems, the underlying issues of homelessness remain unsolved. Moving forward, it’s crucial for Thailand to strike a balance between enforcement and empathy, ensuring all individuals have a path towards a stable future. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-07 -
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Politics Anutin Denies Eyeing Thai PM Role Amidst Political Rumours
So that means he is ! -
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Exclusive-Bombshell-Breaking- Miranda Devine reports …
Another no opinion bomshell: Looks like the good guys are building a case through the new evidence discovered! Brennan may have opened himself up to perjury charges over lets get Trump Russia witch hunt! “Yet in congressional testimony under oath on May 23, 2017, Brennan claimed the Steele Dossier “wasn’t part of the corpus of intelligence information that we had. It was not in any way used as a basis for the Intelligence Community Assessment that was done.” https://nypost.com/2025/07/06/us-news/miranda-devine-ex-cia-chief-john-brennan-may-have-opened-himself-up-to-perjury-charges-over-trump-russia-hoax/ -
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USA Texas Floods Leave Trail of Devastation as Death Toll Climbs to 80
Flood timelapse: -
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Report Tensions Rise as Cambodian Woman Enters Thai Heritage Site
Kids in a play ground 😟
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