REFUGEES IN SOUTHEAST-ASIA - AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE

Of the major post-World War II refugee arenas, Southeast Asia has not been outstanding in terms of absolute numbers when compared to other major refugee crises. However, in terms of the political ramifications that recent Southeast Asian refugee movements have unleashed, and concomitant impacts upon Western societies due to the almost universal emphasis upon third-country resettlement solutions, Southeast Asian refugees have certainly been responsible for the growing debate on the changing character of refugee migrations and the appropriateness of policies and responses. This article assesses the current status of refugees in Southeast Asia and reflects upon their uncertain status as opportunities for third-country resettlement diminish and local pressures to repatriate them intensify. -Author