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3. Cambodians in Khao-I-Dang and at the UNBRO border camps are mostly displaced "as a result of external aggression, occupation and foreign domination", although fear of persecution and economic motives may have influenced some arrivals.
(2) NEEDS OF REFUGEES
UNHCR assesses needs on the basis of standard criteria adapted to take account of local conditions. Assessments are made by UNHCR field officers. There are also periodic visits by specialists from UNHCR and other organisations who make recommendations within their area of expertise.
The refugees themselves form self help committees which act as a channel of communication between the camp administration and the refugee population. The refugees are encouraged to undertake administrative tasks themselves wherever practical.
(3) EFFECTIVENESS OF ASSISTANCE PROGRAMMES
UNHCR assistance programmes are generally well directed when account is taken of the political and other constraints
(see below). There is little evidence that UNHCR assistance is diverted to non-refugee purposes. UNHCR encourages self- sufficiency programmes in the camps. At the operational level the UNHCR works closely with the Thai authorities. Thai personnel are also recruited to act as field officers.
(4)
COORDINATION/COOPERATION
A multiplicity of agencies are involved in the Thai/ Cambodian border relief effort. However there is a well developed mechanism for coordination among the organisations concerned under the direction of Mr Tatsure Kunugi, the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative. In addition UNHCR holds regular in-house coordination meetings on its country programme and participates in the Committee for Coordination of Services to Displaced Persons in Thailand.
UNHCR also liaises with the Thai Government but their relations with the host government are not always good. There are a number of reasons for this. UNHCR's attempts to apply their mandate may at times be at variance with Thailand's perception of its national security interest. Thailand's insistence on local procurement has also given rise to problems.
(5)
INFORMATION/DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
UNHCR's statistics base is good. They are also well informed on political and other aspects affecting its activities.
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