Suan Dusit Poll finds violent crime on the rise, attributing it to lax law enforcement and penalties; public highly concerned about personal safety, calling for heavy punishment, with little confidence the government can solve the problem.
Today (9 Aug.), "Suan Dusit Poll" of Suan Dusit University surveyed public opinion nationwide on the topic of "Crime and Violence in Thai Society," with a sample group of 1,198 people (surveyed online and in the field) between 4–7 August 2026. The results are summarised as follows:
1. What do the public think about crime and violence occurring in Thai society today?
Rank 1 — More violent: 87.40%
Rank 2 — As violent as before: 11.19%
Rank 3 — Not sure: 1.09%
Rank 4 — Less violent: 0.32%
2. What do the public think are the causes of crime and violence in Thai society?
Rank 1 — Law enforcement and penalties are not yet strict enough: 86.81%
Rank 2 — Drug problems: 78.55%
Rank 3 — Upbringing / problems within the family: 57.85%
Rank 4 — Lax probation and parole systems: 54.34%
Rank 5 — Some police officers may be involved in cases: 49.08%
3. Based on crime and violence news occurring recently, do the public feel concerned about their own personal safety?
Rank 1 — Very concerned: 55.09%
Rank 2 — Quite concerned: 38.98%
Rank 3 — Not very concerned: 4.93%
Rank 4 — Not concerned: 1.00%
4. What do the public think should be done to help reduce crime and violence in Thai society?
Rank 1 — Impose heavy punishment on offenders, especially in serious cases and repeat offences: 81.55%
Rank 2 — Enforce laws strictly and rigorously with no exceptions: 77.53%
Rank 3 — Closely monitor and supervise released prisoners: 69.95%
5. Do the public have confidence that the government will be able to solve the problems of crime and violence in Thai society?
Rank 1 — Not very confident: 50.58%
Rank 2 — Quite confident: 24.62%
Rank 3 — Not confident at all: 18.36%
Rank 4 — Very confident: 6.44%
