Scholar advocates for stricter restrictions on temple operation
In Thailand, a growing concern over financial scandals involving senior monks and a lack of transparency in temple asset management has led to calls for stricter financial regulations. Despite senior monks receiving state-funded salaries and holding positions with power and responsibilities comparable to high-ranking government officials, they are not classified as state officials under the anti-graft law, limiting the National Anti-Corruption Commission's authority to audit their assets [1].
To address this issue, new measures are being proposed to increase transparency in temple finance. From October 1, 2025, a ministerial regulation will take effect, requiring temples to deposit their income into bank accounts registered under the temple’s name, limit cash holdings to a maximum of 100,000 baht, and submit annual financial reports to the National Office of Buddhism (NOB) [1].
These regulations follow weak enforcement of existing rules since 2021 with similar requirements, prompting calls for stricter oversight and better audits [1]. Moreover, a proposal to establish a "Buddhist Bank" is gaining traction. This institution would centralize and standardize temple financial management, acting as a transparent regulatory body responsible for managing temple accounts, separating monks’ personal finances from temple assets, and restoring public trust [3].
Additional measures include monthly financial reporting using big data systems and strict audits to monitor temple finances more closely, further limiting cash on hand to curb misuse [5]. Asst Prof Krich Pooyeeyama from Thammasat University's Faculty of Law is advocating for these reforms, emphasizing the need for discipline but warning that criminal penalties must be clearly defined to avoid infringing on personal rights and freedoms [4].
The urgent need for systematic reforms is underscored by a recent poll by the National Institute of Development Administration, which shows 76% of Buddhist respondents believe some monks have engaged in misconduct such as drug use, gambling, or sexual relations [2]. Over 94% of respondents support penalties for misbehaving monks, and 93% also support punishing laypeople involved in sexual misconduct with monks [2].
In conclusion, while monks are not officially government officials under anti-graft laws, reformers advocate for tighter financial regulations and enforcement—such as mandatory banking of temple income, strict cash limits, regular financial disclosures, and the creation of a Buddhist financial oversight institution—to enhance accountability and transparency in managing temple assets [1][3][5]. These reforms aim to address public concerns, restore trust, and ensure the integrity of Buddhist institutions in Thailand.
- In light of the Finance Ministry's proposed regulations for temple finance and the emergence of the idea for a "Buddhist Bank," there is a growing consensus among reformers that stricter Business regulations are necessary to increase transparency and accountability in the management of temple assets.
- As concerns over scandals and a lack of transparency continue to shape the Politics of temple finance in Thailand, there is a pressing need for general-news outlets to closely monitor and report on the progress and implementation of these proposed reforms, ensuring that public trust in Buddhist institutions is maintained.
