On March 23, 2025, a recent survey conducted by Suan Dusit Poll, part of Suan Dusit University, revealed significant insights into public opinion regarding the proposed debt buyback policy advocated by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
According to the poll results, 62.19% of 1,153 respondents indicated support for Thaksin's plan to consolidate various types of debts. This initiative is seen as an effective means to help alleviate the financial burden faced by many Thai citizens. Meanwhile, 57.73% of those surveyed believe that the proposed measure could genuinely resolve the country's debt issues.
The survey was conducted from March 18 to 21, 2025, with participants offering insight into their personal debt circumstances. The results showed that 51.60% of respondents reported debts linked to formal financial institutions such as banks and credit cards, while 29.75% had debts from informal sources, often referred to as loan sharks. Additionally, 18.65% acknowledged having both types of debts.
When asked how they manage their debts, various strategies emerged. A considerable 25.09% admitted to making only minimum payments each period, while 21.96% occasionally default on payments. Finally, 21.35% of participants stated they consistently pay off their debts in full each month.
Focusing on the debt buyback policy proposed by Thaksin, 62.19% of respondents expressed their support mainly due to the belief that it would reduce overall debt and interest rates, contributing positively to their quality of life. They argued that consolidating debts would alleviate stress and potential defaults, helping to improve financial stability.
Conversely, 37.81% of respondents opposed the idea, citing concerns about transparency and the potential for hidden agendas. Critics worry that the policy could lead to diminished financial discipline, potentially encouraging further borrowing and ultimately resulting in bad debts that could negatively impact the economy.
Moreover, when asked whether they believed the debt buyback plan would effectively resolve Thai people's debt issues, 57.73% felt it could, arguing that it would lead to timely payments and reduced reliance on high-interest loans from informal lenders. They echoed sentiments that the approach would also facilitate better cash flow for investments that generate additional income, while 42.27% disagreed, attributing the ongoing debt crisis to lack of financial discipline and improper money management.
In light of these perspectives, the survey also inquired about the government's strategies for tackling national debt issues. An overwhelming 67.45% suggested structural adjustments to debt repayment approaches, recommending measures such as extending payment timelines or reducing monthly installments. Furthermore, 64.76% emphasized the importance of lowering living costs, including utility bills and transportation expenses, as essential factors for alleviating financial burdens. Notably, 61.37% of respondents warranted reducing interest rates on loans.
The results reflect an ongoing dialogue about how best to address Thailand's mounting debt challenges. These findings coincide with an equally pressing issue concerning the government's push for integrated entertainment complexes that also include casinos.
The NIDA Poll, released on the same day, surveyed 1,310 individuals over the age of 18 regarding the government's plans to permit integrated entertainment complexes that feature casinos. The poll indicated that public sentiment remains deeply concerned about several facets of this proposal.
Among the respondents, 32.60% expressed apprehension that permitting casinos will lead to increased social vices and undermine national security. Additionally, 30.23% were skeptical about its potential to rejuvenate the economy, seeking clarity on how these complexes would tangibly benefit Thailand.
Concern over gambling issues also weighed heavily, with 28.09% questioning what measures the government would implement to prevent addiction, while 24.89% pondered potential measures against money laundering through these venues. A similar proportion, 24.66%, wanted assurances that these complexes would not foster organized crime or corrupt practices.
Moreover, the survey results highlight a significant divide in societal expectations regarding these entertainment venues, with 20.15% believing the government should establish strategies to counteract potential social issues. In comparison, 18.63% expressed pessimistic views about whether these entertainment complexes would address existing illegal gambling activities in Thailand.
Public sentiment also struggles to correlate with potential benefits of the policy, as indicated by 18.55% of respondents questioning whether it would indeed enhance tourism. Furthermore, another 17.48% ponder whether Thai citizens might derive advantages from this policy, while 16.56% speculate if it might inadvertently become a source of funding for political figures.
The survey also queried participants about related civic concerns, including 12.90% who believe job creation might stem from this initiative, showing just a glimmer of optimism amidst the apprehensions. Transparency and governance were major themes, with 12.14% indicating doubts that licensing procedures will be transparent and devoid of corruption.
Mistrust towards the government's management of the project looms large, with 11.98% believing that the policy might serve political agendas rather than public interest.
As authorities grapple with these multifaceted issues surrounding both the debt crisis and the contentious introduction of entertainment complexes, striking a balance between economic growth and societal welfare remains crucial. The public's expectations and concerns displayed in these surveys will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping future policies.
