Prior to the Ambassador’s meeting with the community, the Press had the opportunity to ask Ambassador Huso a few questions regarding the living conditions, availability of contacting the world outside of the living quarters, and the future of the returnees.

According to the Ambassador, there are currently two villages in Laos occupied by the Hmong: Ban Pha Lak village in southwest Kasi district in Vietiane province, for the ones that returned voluntarily, which is a permanent village with some form of infrastructure and irrigation system. There is also Phonkham village east of Bolikhan district, Bolikkhamxay province, which is occupied by the involuntary returnees, with the hope that it will remain a permanent settlement. In each village, the Lao Government has created road access, built more housing, supplied running water, and most recently added electrical resources. Whether these villages are guarded by military officials or are under controlled living conditions is still unclear because at time the Ambassador had also used the word “camp” in his reference to the villages.

The Ambassador also had the opportunity to visit these villages and witness the living conditions. There are no school systems in place, no healthcare facilities, and it is confirmed that there is a lack of adequate nutrition. It is also unclear how the U.S. could effectively provide support and assistance to other organizations, as there were no discussions on these matters.

Outside contact can be made through cell phone usage. Although some access has been granted, journalists and non-governmental workers can still be denied entry into the villages. Ambassador Huso’s suggestions for more accessibility are, “the continuance of engagement, discussions, and dialogue. I only hope that the Lao government is open to this possibility.”

To further this engagement, Senator Al Franken is intending to visit Laos sometime this year. His commitment to ensure their safety and well-being still remains a priority.

There is currently no plan implemented for the future of the returnees, and if there were one, no details were given or discussed. The Ambassador hopes that the repatriated can “pursue normal lives” and will be able to have rights, like other citizens of Laos.

When the Ambassador met with the community in the auditorium, little was established, answers were still very much unclear, and the Hmong-American community did not find ways to assist the more than 4,500 returnees. The Ambassador’s visit was a disappointment.

It is important for the Lao government to be accountable and provide more transparency of those repatriated, along with more details about mandatory agreements by the U.S. as well.