July 16, 2008
From the Karen Women’s Organisation

Urgent appeal to stop Thai repatriation of Karen refugees tomorrow

A group of 44 Karen refugees, mostly women and children, staying at Mae Ra Ma Luang Refugee Camp, Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son Province, Northern Thailand, have been informed by the Thai military that they will be repatriated back across the Salween River tomorrow.

These refugees are recent arrivals to the camp, having fled in March and April from fighting in northern Karen State of Burma. Thai security forces staying in the camp tried to send the group back today, but could not arrange boat transport in time.

The Karen Women’s Organisation (KWO) is seriously concerned for the welfare and safety of these refugees. To repatriate women and children in the middle of the rainy season is particularly cruel, and we appeal to the Thai authorities to reconsider their decision and allow them to stay.



For further details contact: Naw Blooming Night Zan at +66 819736471

The KWO works towards achieving the rights of women and equal status with men. It works throughout the Karen community, including all Karen refugee camps along the Thai-Burma border and Karen State within Burma.