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The camps offered a relatively safe sanctuary compared to constant military raids back home, but camp life was spartan and restrictive.
"The NGOs and UNHCR gave us rice, fish paste, salt and yellow beans for our daily meals," Peter added.
Stewards of the future
The young are the stewards of the future. Without a proper education and a proper future, generations of young Karen refugees will be lost in transition in isolated jungle camps.
Camp schools could teach up to only the tenth grade. Those with talent and academic ability are frustrated by the lack of educational opportunities. Peter's ambition reflects the basic human right for a proper education.
is to be free from fear and worry, and to continue my studies peacefully."
Resettlement Hopes
Political impasse in the protracted civil war between the ruling military government and ethnic groups only prolongs the anxious wait for freedom for these Karen refugees in the jungle camps.
But the long wait has ended for over 10,000 Burmese refugees who have resettled in the US under a UNHCR program.
Tens of thousands though are still waiting.
Let us hope their wait is not in vain.
Copyright 2005-2009 Teresa Cheong. All rights reserved.
Teresa Cheong is a freelance writer specializing in web writing, article writing, SEO copywriting, corporate communications. She has written on a wide range of topics, including health, eldercare, diet and nutrition, and consumer goods. Teresa is currently working on her first children's story book for young readers.
Not to be reprinted without written permission.
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