[Tlc] TL-Karen refugees

[justinm at ucr.edu]

Forwarded from Dr. Charnvit Kasetsiri.
Thanks,
justin

        Declaration by the presidency on behalf of the European Union on the Karen civilians fleeing Burma/Myanmar

        Source: European Union (EU)

        Date: 11 Jun 2009


        The EU has noted with serious concern the mounting offensive of the Burmese Army and its allies against the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), which has resulted in large numbers of civilians fleeing from the conflict area in Kayin/Karen State to Thailand.

        The EU calls for an immediate ceasefire and requests the authorities and military operators to ensure the protection of civilians at all times and to comply with international humanitarian and human rights law. Generally, the authorities should refrain from seeking military solutions against the ethnic minorities; this only fosters instability, long-term divisions and hatred.

        The EU reiterates its commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Burma/Myanmar.

        The EU calls instead for the conditions to be created that allow the return of all refugees, and for the start of an inclusive and time-bound process of political dialogue leading to national reconciliation.

        The EU is strongly concerned about the humanitarian situation of the thousands of newly displaced persons in Thailand. It acknowledges the efforts that the Royal Government of Thailand, which already hosts large numbers of Burmese refugees, undertakes to provide the new arrivals with all necessary care. The EU stands ready to provide more assistance where possible.
        Priya
        Priya Waeohongsa
        Programme Officer
        Delegation of the European Commission to Thailand
        Kian Gwan House II, 19th Floor
        140/1 Wireless Road, Bangkok 10330
        Tel. +66 2 305 2600/2700 ext.2752; Fax. + 66 2 2559110
        E-mail: priya.waeohongsa at ec.europa.eu
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______________
Dr. Justin McDaniel
Dept. of Religious Studies
3046 INTN
University of California, Riverside
Riverside, CA 92521
951-827-4530
justinm at ucr.edu