Report Thai Minister Urges Public to Halt Handouts to Reduce Begging

[snoop1130]

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

 

 

[BonnieandClyde]

Begging probably closely follows prostitution as the world's oldest profession.

Efforts like this are beyond ludicrous.

[geisha]

It’s very sad, a Thai friend and I spoke to a Thai woman of about 70 yrs old but looked 90, in Patong . She didn’t beg at the market but sat on the pavement and most people gave her 10 baht or bought her food. Apparently she was a local lady who had always worked, her husband died, she couldn’t pay the rent on her own as she had no children to help her.  Condo building there and becoming a very popular area , there was no way she could survive decently.. That’s Thailand , in all the popular tourist areas the condos , hotels have pushed out the poorer of Thailand. Nowhere to go on a few baht pension, how does the rich government in Bangkok think they are doing anything at all to help the homeless and aged in generally ? Terrible situation. I saw a lot in Pattaya too sleeping on the building sites and in carparks. 

[watchcat]

12 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

“Begging has existed for years,” Varawut stated, “but it’s important to understand that it’s illegal under Thai law.”

 

Does this include "vote begging" ? Thaksin what do you think about this?

[JimHuaHin]

Afraid of scaring more tourists away?

[ronster]

Maybe if the government helped them out in some way like setting up daily food spots or health check spots then maybe they might not have to constantly beg. Although there are those who do it for a living then get in their cars and drive home at night . Quite how much this is done here compared to places in UK I'm not sure.

[GreasyFingers]

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

When apprehended, foreign beggars are deported, while Thai nationals are referred to Homeless Protection Centres.

They are in plain sight. He could apprehend all of them easily if he wanted to.

[redwood1]

3 hours ago, watchcat said:

 

Does this include "vote begging" ? Thaksin what do you think about this?

 

Tony says brown envelopes, and theft is just fine, but please no begging because thats illegal...

[watchcat]

50 minutes ago, GreasyFingers said:

They are in plain sight. He could apprehend all of them easily if he wanted to.

 

Yes you have to be a blind to miss a "Whale"