Growing Concerns Over Child Begging in Bangkok

Bhuntin Noumjerm’s Urgent Appeal

People’s Party MP for Bangkok, Bhuntin Noumjerm, has raised alarms regarding the increasing presence of foreign beggars in the Asok-Nana area, particularly those accompanied by children. He is urging the government to take decisive action against this troubling trend, which he believes exploits vulnerable minors to generate more income.

Investigation into the Child Begging Crisis

Rising Numbers of Foreign Child Beggars

In a statement made yesterday, Mr. Bhuntin highlighted the alarming rise in foreign child beggars at key intersections near the BTS stations in Asok and Nana. Surveys conducted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) corroborate his findings, revealing that many beggars bring infants—some as young as one month old—to elicit sympathy from passersby.

Superficial Government Response

Despite notifying relevant agencies about this issue, Mr. Bhuntin criticized the government’s response as superficial, indicating that more thorough investigations are necessary to address the growing problem effectively.

Demographics of the Beggars

Predominantly Cambodian Beggars

According to Mr. Bhuntin, most of these foreign child beggars are Cambodian nationals who are often accompanied by elderly individuals claiming to be their guardians. He suggested that authorities might need to conduct DNA tests to verify these relationships, emphasizing that regardless of familial ties, using children for begging violates local laws.

Public Safety Concerns

Mr. Bhuntin also expressed concerns about public safety, citing reports of tourists being pickpocketed or having their valuables stolen by beggars. He noted that some children are used strategically to pressure pedestrians into giving money.

Legal Implications and Organized Networks

Potential Illegal Immigration Issues

The MP pointed out that many of these beggars may have entered Thailand illegally or overstayed their visas, further complicating the situation. He indicated that some operate as part of organized networks, earning daily incomes ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 baht and even using high-end smartphones.

Need for Comprehensive Solutions

Mr. Bhuntin’s call for action underscores the necessity for a comprehensive approach to tackle not only child begging but also the broader issues of illegal immigration and organized crime in Bangkok.

Conclusion: A Call for Government Action

Addressing a Complex Social Issue

The increasing visibility of foreign beggars exploiting children raises significant social and legal challenges in Bangkok. As Mr. Bhuntin Noumjerm calls for government intervention, it becomes imperative for authorities to develop effective strategies that protect vulnerable populations while ensuring public safety and maintaining the city’s reputation as a welcoming destination for tourists.

Overview of the “Homes for Thais” Scheme

Government’s Ambitious Housing Initiative

The Thai government’s “Homes for Thais” scheme, recently launched with significant public interest, aims to address the critical housing needs of low-income earners. Despite over 20 million registrations, industry experts believe that this initiative will not disrupt the broader real estate market significantly.

Distinct Target Markets: Government vs. Private Sector

Analysis from Industry Experts

Leading developers and analysts, including Surachet Kongcheep from Cushman & Wakefield, assert that the target market for the “Homes for Thais” scheme is fundamentally different from that of the private sector. The government plans to construct 150,000 units specifically designed for low-income individuals who may not qualify for traditional mortgages. These homes cater to those with lower monthly incomes and distinct housing needs.

Private Sector Focus on Higher Income Earners

In contrast, the private sector primarily targets middle-to-high-income earners seeking homes in prime locations. Kongcheep emphasizes that while there may be some overlap at the lower end of the market, most private sector buyers can afford higher monthly payments and are looking for properties with more amenities and better locations.

Complementing Rather Than Competing

Insights from Real Estate Leaders

Prasert Taedullayasatit, president of the Thai Condominium Association, supports this view by highlighting that the “Homes for Thais” initiative provides unique opportunities for low-income individuals through long-term leases. He argues that this scheme complements rather than competes with the private sector, which focuses on freehold properties.

Modest Impact on Mass-Market Segment

Apisit Soonthronchukiat, CEO of Origin Vertical Corporation, notes that while the scheme may have a modest impact on the mass-market segment—especially in areas with affordable housing options—factors such as location, amenities, and lifestyle preferences will continue to drive homebuyers’ decisions.Coexistence of Government and Private Housing Markets

Limited Disruption Expected in Real Estate Market

Although the “Homes for Thais” scheme represents a significant government effort to provide affordable housing for low-income earners, experts believe it will not cause major disruptions in the overall real estate market. The distinct target markets and varying affordability levels suggest that both government-backed initiatives and private sector developments can coexist without significant competition.This initiative marks an important step towards addressing Thailand’s housing crisis while ensuring that diverse market needs are met effectively.