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RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. The United States should support the Royal Thai
Government/UNHCR screening program for Lao arrivals and should press for improved conditions in the holding centers for those awaiting return to Laos.
2.
Administration Actions:
o The United States provided $200,000 to UNHCR in FY 1986 for costs associated with the program.
o The United States encouraged other major donors to provide additional funds.
o RTG has announced plans to build an additional holding center to relieve overcrowding. USG will continue to monitor conditions in the camps.
The Thai government and UNHCR should be encouraged to complete arrangements with the Lao Peoples Democratic Republic for the safe return of those found not to qualify as refugees.
Administration Actions:
o U.S. officials have encouraged both the Thai and Lao governments, as well as the UNHCR, to resolve outstanding issues and allow for the safe return of those screened out.
3.
United States refugee processing should be continued for lowland Lao in Thailand. Future admissions should be consistent with the recommendations in section B above. Immigrant processing should be expedited for those who qualify.
4.
Administration Actions:
o More than 8,000 lowland Lao have been approved for U.S. resettlement during FY 1986 (through May).
o UNHCR will continue to report on conditions in Laos to potential returnees and will follow-up on returnees as conditions permit.
o U.S. continues to encourage the use of the normal immigration channels for those Lao who qualify.
The United States and other nations should continue to
provide adequate support for care and maintenance, including education, of Lao refugees until alternative long-term solutions are in place.
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