Bangkok: A recent survey conducted by Super Poll has revealed that a significant majority of Thais are not in favor of opening the Thai-Cambodian border crossing. The poll indicates that 60.7% of respondents believe reopening the border would harm the feelings of Thai citizens and compromise their dignity, with many not ready to reconcile or forgive historical disputes.
According to Thai News Agency, the survey, led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Noppadol Kannika, founder of the Super Poll Research Center, was conducted between September 12 and 13, 2015, and included responses from 1,158 individuals from various demographics across Thailand. The findings highlight that while there are perceived benefits to reopening the border, such as economic stimulation (38.9%), tourism promotion (33.4%), and enhanced border peace (32.8%), these advantages do not outweigh the perceived disadvantages for a majority of respondents.
Dr. Kannika emphasized that the survey results demonstrate a clear preference for maintaining the border closure, with concerns about an influx of cheap Cambodian goods potentially harming Thai businesses (57.8%) and fears of increased transnational crime (56.9%). Additionally, apprehensions about public health risks were noted by 48.1% of respondents, underscoring a lack of readiness in the border’s public health infrastructure.
A direct comparison of the survey’s pros and cons shows that 58.9% of Thais perceive the risks of reopening the border as outweighing the benefits, with a strong emphasis on prioritizing national security over economic incentives. This perspective is shared by 75.4% of respondents who believe national security must take precedence over economic considerations.
The survey also unveiled a lack of trust in Cambodian leadership, with 77.1% of participants expressing little to no confidence in the Cambodian government’s sincerity in addressing border issues. This sentiment further fuels the reluctance to support the border’s reopening.
Dr. Kannika concluded that the survey results reflect a clear preference for prioritizing national security and maintaining confidence in Thai governance. Recommendations include delaying the border reopening until robust security, economic, and health measures are in place, fostering negotiations with Cambodia to ensure cooperation against transnational crimes, and strengthening public communication to highlight potential benefits while addressing the concerns of border communities.