CityNews – The Thai military government approved the Control of Begging Act on April 22nd. The new law criminalises begging on the streets of Thailand’s major cities and also regulates busking in exchange for donations.
According to Khaosod English, Major General Sansern Kaewkamnerd has stated that the new law aims to reduce the number of beggars on the street and provide rehabilitation and job training programs to homeless Thai nationals.
According to reports on Thai PBS, Thai beggars caught on the streets will receive occupational training while foreign nationals will be deported back to their country. Buskers will be required to seek approval from authorities before performing on the streets.
The Control of Begging Act appears to be the next step in the military government’s strategy for tacking homelessness in Thailand, following the passing of the Protection of the Helpless Act in September 2014.
Under the Protection of the Helpless Act, Thai homeless removed from the streets should be provided with shelter, food, clothing and assistance in finding employment.