On March 23, 2025, Thailand faced significant public concerns over its financial landscape, particularly regarding debt management, a national census, and new entertainment policies. The Suan Dusit Poll revealed that many individuals coping with debt have high hopes for a proposal by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to allow the government to purchase individual debts from banks and creditors.
According to the Suan Dusit Poll, conducted between March 18 and 21, 2025, with a sample size of 1,153 participants, 62.19% agreed with the idea of the government buying debts to consolidate them at lower interest rates. The survey highlighted that 51.60% of participants are already involved in a financial system where they primarily make minimum payments to manage their debts. Additionally, 67.45% of respondents urged the government to consider adjusting debt structural reforms as a more sustainable approach to alleviate Thailand's growing financial burdens.
“This poll demonstrates the anguish of many Thais who are struggling with debt, reflecting their desire for new measures like debt purchasing that provide relief without significant state funding,” said Pornprapa Buathong, president of the Suan Dusit Poll. Unfortunately, many Thais remain wary that the initiative to buy debt could result in a half-measure rather than yield lasting fiscal stability.
Moreover, the sentiment for improving life for those in debt is echoed by a broader understanding of the harsh realities faced by citizens trying to make ends meet. The collective hope is for solutions that do not only alleviate present difficulties but ensure future sustainability, compelling the government to prioritize viable debt restructuring and reduction of living costs and interest rates.
Meanwhile, the National Statistical Office plans to conduct its decadal population and housing census for 2025, the first since 2010 due to the COVID-19 pandemic delaying the 2020 count. The new census aims to gather crucial demographic and socio-economic data to inform government policies and plans for national development. It is set to begin on April 1, 2025, employing digital-based data collection methods to enhance public participation and efficiency. Citizens can access the survey via three online channels, as stated by Prasert Chanthanruangthong, the acting minister of digital economy and society.
“The information collected during the census will serve crucial insights for planning and policy-making and ensure that government resources align with the needs of all citizens,” he added.
The census intends to gather detailed information about approximately 29 million households and their residents, targeting those who reside in the country and even temporary expatriates. This vast undertaking anticipates data collection from different demographics, including vulnerable groups, guided by the commitment to protect personal data and privacy. Public access and participation are expected to reach at least 50% online, supplemented by “Madi” personnel visits for households unable to respond digitally. This is essential, especially given the estimated 5 million households that exist without online access.
Adding to the public discourse, the NIDA Poll conducted from March 18 to 20, revealing that many citizens are skeptical about the government’s proposal for integrated entertainment complexes, including casinos. The poll presented concerns about increasing vice activities leading to national destabilization, with 32.60% believing in negative societal repercussions.
“A significant proportion of Thai citizens remain worried that the introduction of these entertainment facilities will contribute to gambling and possible criminal influences,” said NIDA researchers. Concerns about whether such policies could significantly improve the economy were prevalent, with 30.23% uncertain about the projected benefits to the population.
This scrutiny of the proposed entertainment complexes includes apprehensions regarding gambling addiction prevention measures, potential laundering of illicit funds, the financial interests of politicians, and the overall efficacy of such developments in tourism promotion.
Additionally, fears of inciting social unrest over these entertainment policies were reflected in responses; 31.83% mentioned potential severe societal conflict arising from the enforcement of such legislation, while 31.68% foresaw less intense issues of disagreement.
Among various demographic groups, older individuals expressed heightened concern regarding the negative impacts of such policies, while lower-income populations emphasized the need for clear economic benefits and assurances of protection from financial risks.
The trends emerged from multiple surveys indicate that while a substantial portion of the demographic is poised for change in their economic distress, broader social factors require careful management. In each case, whether it's debt management, census records, or proposed entertainment policies, citizens' conversations and voices are increasingly important.
As Thailand moves toward finding effective solutions to these pressing issues, the government is under pressure to address public concerns adequately while navigating processes that require responsible and transparent governance policy.
