The kids will drink: Why Thailand booze ban could do more harm than good

Police raid a bar near a university in Bangkok. Image via Khaosod English.

By James Austin- Aug 24, 2015

It’s uncertain at the moment how the military junta intends to enforce its ban of alcohol sales within 300 metres (500 metres has also been talked about) of educational institutions. Numerous critics opposed to the ban have said that it would gravely affect business and diminish tourism revenue, but so far the potential benefits of the action itself, which is ostensibly to sway young folks from drinking – have not been called into question. The junta seemed to back-peddle after the initial pronouncement of the order, but then said the ban would be enforced arbitrarily – based on the, “appropriateness of the situation,” according to Saman Footrakul, director of the Alcohol Beverage Office, as reported by Khaosod.

The Kids Will Drink Why Thailand Booze Ban Could Do More Harm Than Good by Thavam Ratna