Why are the Hmong refugees at the Huai Nam Khao camp bordering Laos a population in danger?
They are considered illegal immigrants and thus do not have the right to leave the camp. Outside, they risk expulsion to Laos where most would face prison, trial for conspiracy, and physical attack. Based on conversations with the refugees during medical consultations, we know that they are terrified that they may be sent back to Laos. We have been told that some spent years—up to 10 or 15—hiding in the jungles of Laos because the Laotian army was chasing them. What are MSF’s requests? We are asking the political actors to assume their responsibilities. United Nations agencies, representatives of the European Union, embassies and the Thai government have made efforts in recent months, but we believe that discussions on the problem of the Hmong in Thailand must continue and be stepped up. Thailand is not a signatory to the Geneva Conventions, so it does not recognize either the status of refugee or the mandate of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees on matters of assistance and protect
