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stly, the SRV see this concession as a step in a process of confidence building in the region. It should be perceived by the SRV Government as a gesture made primarily towards the ASEAN and, as such, an investment for the future. For this reason, the role of the ASEAN in approaching Viet Nam (either individually or collectively) and the manner in which this approach is
made are crucial. Humanitarian issues should be detached from political
controversies and become the subject of a constructive dialogue.
Secondly, the SRV should not be hampered by the consideration that the readmission of its non-refugee citizens would pose a new economic burden amidst the host of other economic problems with which that Government is
presently grappling. To cater to this, some limited, non-developmental, reintegrations assistance similar to models applied in Laos could be envisaged. UNHCR is confident that limited funds for this purpose could be
made available by interested donors.
22. Critics may see such approach to the SRV as unorthodox and too
accommodating vis-a-vis a government which is not being asked more than to assume responsibility for its own citizens. Be that as it may, realities
dictate a pragmatic approach. The SRV is unlikely to respond positively to
calls from the UNHCR alone.
23. The above approach has been the subject of extensive informal discussions
among the major receiving/donor countries within the framework of the
Inter-Governmental Consultative Group on Indochinese refugees (ICG)#/. At its
last meeting in Ottawa on 7 and 8 April, broad support for the main elements
of this approach, i.e. improved ODP, eligibility screening mechanism and
approach to Viet Nam was expressed. The Ottawa meeting also reaffirmed the
intention to continue resettlement and supported the principle of first
asylum. UNHCR has since moved to intensify its dialogue with the SRV. The
two concrete steps are explained below.
*/ Originally known as Honolulu Group, this informal consultative forum gathers Australia, Canada, Japan, United Kingdom (observer) and the United States. UNHCR participates as an observer and resource agency,