Thais Want Israelis Held to Law, NIDA Poll Finds

Thailand’s public patience with alleged bad behavior by Israeli visitors appears to be running out, with a significant majority in a recent National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) poll expressing a desire for strict law enforcement. The survey, conducted from September 8-10 across six provinces including Bangkok, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Surat Thani, Phuket, and Mae Hong Son, questioned 1,410 eligible voters. More than three-quarters of respondents, specifically 76.38%, reported hearing media reports about alleged inappropriate or illegal behavior by Israelis in Thailand. While only 5.11% had direct personal experience, the figures indicate a widespread awareness of the issue through media channels. The primary concerns cited by those aware of the alleged misconduct were a perceived "disregard for Thai law" (71.22%), followed by "impolite speech or behavior seen as contemptuous towards Thai people" (46.39%) and "a lack of respect for Thai culture" (45.96%). These issues are seen as a broader sense of disrespect rather than isolated incidents. Other significant issues raised included the alleged use of Thai nominees to hold land (31.44%) and businesses (29.04%), the potential for racial, ethnic, or religious conflict (20.02%), and unease over Israeli cemeteries established without local consultation (19.93%). Visa overstays (16.41%) and competition with Thais for reserved occupations (10.48%) were also mentioned. Regarding solutions, nearly half of respondents (45.45%) want the government to shorten the duration of stay for Israelis. Another 38.49% believe the Israeli Embassy should more closely supervise its nationals' behavior. Some respondents also advocated for active opposition to the alleged misconduct by Thai citizens (26.46%), with a quarter (23.54%) framing the issue as a national security concern. NIDA cautioned that the poll, conducted in only six provinces, may not represent a nationally representative snapshot of Thai opinion. Additionally, the poll's title in Thai, "Jewish people," while the questions focused on Israelis, could blur the distinction between Jewish identity and Israeli nationality. The poll's findings emerge amidst a rising public backlash, including protests outside the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok. In response, the embassy stated it is monitoring the negative sentiment and preparing travel guidance to encourage visitors to obey Thai law, cooperate with authorities, and respect local culture. Source: Khaosod English