Thailand casino bill draws ire from religious groups
Four of Thailand’s most prominent religious groups have joined forces to urge the government to revoke a contentious measure that would legalise casino resorts, citing the detrimental impact it would have on the country’s social cohesion and moral fabric.
According to reports, the Church of Christ in Thailand (CCT), the Buddhist Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage (BATR), the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Thailand (CBCT), and the Wasatiyyah Institute for Peace and Development (WIPD) of the Sheikhul Islam Office strongly opposed the so-called entertainment complex bill.
The groups voiced serious concerns that legalising gambling will worsen addiction, raise crime, and undermine long-standing moral principles in separate statements released between 3 to 6 April 2025.
Casinos spark religious backlash
The CBCT warned that gambling addiction often leads to debt, which in turn may drive money laundering, human trafficking, and other criminal activity. The Church of Christ, Thailand’s largest Protestant denomination, also condemned the bill, citing biblical teachings against gambling and warning that it would “corrupt public ethics” and create widespread social issues.
The Buddhist Association noted that the bill contradicts the teachings of Lord Buddha and referenced historical examples, such as King Rama I’s use of Buddhist principles as a moral compass for national development. It argued that Thailand could build a resilient, self-sustaining economy without resorting to vice industries.
The WIPD called gambling a grave sin in Islam and warned of wider consequences for families and communities. It said the government must weigh the long-term social costs rather than short-term financial gains.
A new 12-point supporting document
Despite this wave of faith-based opposition, the Thai government stands by the proposal. On 4 April 2025, the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) of the Finance Ministry released a 12-point statement defending the bill. The FPO argues that the legislation would bring more benefits than harm and could significantly boost the country’s economy.
The office claims entertainment complexes would help revitalise Thailand’s tourism sector, which has struggled to recover in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, officials emphasise that the planned facilities will not only house casinos. In keeping with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s strategy to build artificial tourist attractions, they would consist of a variety of retail centers, amusement parks, lodgings, and sports facilities.
The bill’s supporters think it might open up new cash sources and make Thailand a competitive travel destination in the region, despite religious and civic organisations warning of social degradation. How the government will balance mounting public opposition with its economic goals is still up in the air as the discussion heats up.
