On 29 December 2009, Ms. Vimon Kidchob, Director-General of the Department of Information and Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ spokesperson, responded to questions by the press regarding the managed and orderly return of some 4,300 Laotian Hmong illegal migrants. Gist is as follows:
In recent years, Thailand has been facing the problem of Laotian Hmongs who had illegally entered Thailand in search of economic opportunities or with the hope of being able to further their livelihoods in third countries. On 28 December 2009, Thai authorities managed the safe and orderly return of some 4,300 Laotian Hmong illegal migrants in the shelter at Huay Nam Khao in Petchaboon Province and in the Immigration Detention Centre in Nong Khai Province to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, in accordance with the Thai Immigration Act. The movement proceeded in a smooth manner and without incident, with due regard for human rights and humanitarian principles. Cooperation and understanding was received from the Laotian Hmongs during the return arrangements.
The return followed assurances from the Laotian Government that legal proceedings will not be undertaken against the returning Laotian Hmongs as well as her willingness to facilitate requests for their onward travel and resettlement. Third countries wishing to receive Laotian Hmongs to be resettled can coordinate with the Laotian authorities. In addition, for those returning Laotian Hmongs wishing to return to their home communities, they will be facilitated with transportation and initial financial assistance, while those wishing to move to a development village will be provided with housing and other assistance.
During the course of 2008 and 2009, the Thai authorities had already facilitated 19 returns of over 3,200 Laotian Hmongs illegal migrants who expressed their wish to return to Laos, and there has been no report of any difficulties or persecution faced by such returnees. The Laotian authorities have also invited representatives of several countries and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to visit those returnees. Meanwhile, Thai authorities have been in constant discussion with relevant parties to address queries regarding the situation of the Laotian Hmong illegal migrants in Thailand.
The Thai authorities therefore believe that the returning Laotian Hmongs will be able to lead a decent living and join other Laotians in the development of their country, or pursue other opportunities.
For further information, please contact the Press Division, Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tel.02-6435170, Fax.02-6435169, E-mail: div0704@mfa.go.th