An opinion survey found most respondents were aware of behavioural issues among some Israeli people in Thailand and support strict law enforcement as a solution.
The National Institute of Development Administration conducted the survey by phone, questioning 1,410 Thais aged 18 or more from Sept 8-10. The respondents were in Bangkok, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Surat Thani, Phuket and Mae Hong Son.
On Sept 10 there was a demonstration outside the Israeli embassy in Bangkok.
Of the respondents, 76.38% said they heard news reports about the improper behaviour of some Israelis in Thailand, 17.45% said they had not seen the reports and had no first-hand experience of such misbehaviour, 5.11% said they had first-hand experience, 4.33% had heard about it from eyewitnesses, and 3.48% said they had third-hand reports.
When the 1,164 respondents who experienced improper behaviour directly or indirectly were asked about it:
71.22% mentioned law violations
46.39% impolite words and insults to Thais
45.96% disrespect for Thai culture
40.03% disrespect for communities’ lifestyles
36.43% disrespect for public and private areas
31.44% land occupation through Thai proxies
29.04% business operations through Thai proxies
20.02% behaviour that may cause racial or religious conflict
19.93% establishment of Israeli cemeteries without consultation with locals
18.47% expansion of Israeli communities (18.47%)
16.41% overstaying visas
10.48% doing jobs reserved for Thais
10.22% running religious places
9.54% working in jobs outside their work permits
9.36% zero-dollar tour services (9.36%)
Meanwhile, 2.41% of the respondents said they had no dissatisfaction and 1.98% said they doubted negative news reports about Israelis in Thailand.
When the 1,164 respondents were asked about the measures that should be taken:
77.49% said authorities should enforce laws strictly
45.45% said the government should reduce visa periods for Israelis
38.49% said the Israeli embassy should seriously ensure good among Israelis in Thailand
26.46% said Thais should protest against misbehaviour or wrongdoing by Israelis in Thailand
23.54% said the government should consider the impact of growing Israeli communities in Thailand on national security
17.53% said Thais should protest against the people who support misbehaviour or wrongdoing by Israelis in Thailand
6.62% want the government to deport wrongdoers.
Of the respondents, 1.20% said people should verify reports about Israeli misbehaviour, 1.12% recommended a gentle response, to protect tourism, and 2.75% said harsh responses could affect Thai workers in Israel.