Thais' attitudes to crime and law enforcement

The 2024 edition of Ipsos' Crime and Law Enforcement Report sheds light on Thai residents' views on safety, security, and the role of law enforcement. While crime is a concern, economic anxieties seem to take precedence for many Thais. 

Economic Concerns Outweigh Crime Fears

While 36% of Thais report an increase in crime over the past year, a significant majority (68%) believe the government should prioritise economic revitalisation – creating jobs and boosting the economy – over crime reduction (11%). This suggests economic security may be a bigger concern for Thais when it comes to overall safety.

Trust in Law Enforcement: 

There's a positive trend in trust towards law enforcement. Compared to last year, Thais show greater confidence in their ability to solve crimes (59%) and prevent them – over half for both violent (53%) and non-violent (52%) crimes. 

Respect for the Law: A Balancing Act

Despite concerns about fairness, Thais demonstrate a strong sense of civic duty. A clear majority (63%) believe people should obey the law, even if it clashes with personal interests. However, a significant minority (37%) believe there are situations where ignoring the law is justified. 

Addressing the Root Causes of Crime

Thais overwhelmingly identify socio-economic factors as major drivers of crime. A significant 62% identify poverty and unemployment as major contributors, exceeding the global average (53%), reinforcing the connection between economic well-being and public safety. Additionally, half of Thais believe drug and alcohol abuse contribute significantly to crime, suggesting a need for multi-pronged approaches to address these issues.