The “Stop Gambling” Foundation, in partnership with the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, has initiated a groundbreaking campaign aimed at tackling the surge of online gambling among Thai youth. Recent statistics reveal that over 3 million Thai youths are engaged in online gambling, with more than 1.4 million at risk of developing a gambling addiction. These numbers spike particularly during school breaks when students have more free time, heightening their exposure to online gambling.
Recognizing the addictive nature of online gambling and the difficulties in quitting, the foundation emphasizes prevention as the most effective strategy. Instead of simply urging youth to stop gambling, the campaign titled “Tit for Tat: Expose and Suppress Online Gambling,” focuses on preventing the initiation of gambling behaviors. The campaign employs creative and engaging methods to unveil the tactics used by online gambling platforms, using a peer-to-peer warning style to help young people understand the harmful effects of online gambling before they start.
The foundation transforms existing online gambling advertisements into educational tools for youth. These clips, often not legally protected due to their illicit content, are repurposed into campaign videos and distributed widely across social media channels. This innovative approach mimics the appearance of gambling websites, attracting young people to watch and learn about the dangers of online gambling.
Following the release of the campaign video, the “Stop Gambling” Foundation, alongside the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, hosted a forum under the theme “Tit for Tat: Expose and Suppress Online Gambling.” Designed to look like an online gambling website, this forum aimed to engage youth visually while delivering critical information about the deceptive strategies of gambling sites. Notable participants included White8Z, a popular TikToker, and Yuthana Boonorm, who shared a video message condemning the misuse of modified clips by celebrities for inappropriate advertisements.
Beyond raising awareness, the campaign also highlights the support services offered by the “Stop Gambling” Foundation. The foundation’s helpline, @Rabaisaipanun, is available to listen, support, and advise youth affected by online gambling. This service aims to help young people break free from addiction and reintegrate into society as stronger and more resilient.
