Experts Call for Urgent Social Policy Reform as Youth Cannabis and Drug Use Rises in Thailand

A surge in youth substance abuse has sparked concern among Thai public health experts, who are urging the next government to prioritize comprehensive social policies addressing cannabis, drugs, and related issues. At a recent public forum in Bangkok, experts from leading universities and advocacy groups warned that the lack of targeted policy is compounding social disparities and failing to protect vulnerable youth, with usage rates and related incidents on the rise

The event, organized by the Public Health Promotion Movement in collaboration with Thammasat University and Chulalongkorn University, brought together academics and civil society leaders to discuss overlooked social challenges ahead of Thailand's upcoming elections. Professor Surichai Wankaew highlighted the growing impact of globalization and inequality, emphasizing that development policies often ignore structural injustices affecting marginalized communities

Associate Professor Dr. Boonlert Wisetpricha, Dean of Thammasat's Faculty of Sociology and Anthropology, pointed out that while some social policies exist, many critical issues—including drug abuse, gambling, and educational inequality—remain unaddressed. "We need policies that cover everyone, not just perpetuate inequality," he stated, calling for a broader, more inclusive policy framework

On the topic of cannabis and electronic cigarettes, Teerapat Kahawong, youth health promotion network coordinator, warned that current policy trends risk normalizing e-cigarettes in the same way cannabis was liberalized. He argued, "E-cigarettes have the same addictive substances and health risks as traditional cigarettes," adding that the economic rationale for extending alcohol sales hours in tourist hubs had not yielded the promised financial benefits, but rather led to increased road accidents and reduced tourism in some areas

Wacharapong Phumchuen, director of the Substance Abuse Academic Center Foundation, presented survey data showing widespread public demand for stricter controls on drugs, cannabis, and kratom. He cited the example of a 14-year-old in Chiang Rai as evidence of failed prevention efforts and noted that despite a budget of over 5.4 billion baht for drug issues, much of it is spent on enforcement rather than community prevention. "We must let local communities and youth participate in designing solutions, not just impose top-down authority," Wacharapong stressed

From the OG Lab newsroom perspective, the rising rates of youth cannabis and drug use amid policy gaps highlight a critical juncture for Thailand's next administration. With mounting public health and social costs, the industry and policymakers alike will need to watch for more balanced, evidence-based approaches that prioritize prevention, community involvement, and long-term social resilience