Speech #960196493

Despite official government statements. including instructions to avoid waste. warnings to maintain public security and constant reminders of the threat from foreign troops. this years celebration appeared to reflect the traditional Lao New Years spirit more than has been the case in the past few years. b. Freedom of Movement Within the Country. Foreign Travel and Emigration Until December 1979 Lao citizens were required to seek permission from the authorities for most internal travel of any distance. Foreign travel is permitted for officials and students of governmentapproved programs. Border crossing permits are available for those with business in Thailand. The Lao Government has said that those wishing to emigrate will be allowed to do so. In fact tens of thousands have fled Laos. some were fired upon and some killed by Lao border guards. as they crossed the river to Thailand. Many Lao caught seeking to leave illegally have been imprisoned. although in some cases they have only been sent for short indoctrination seminars before being allowed to return home. The Lao have recently agreed with the Thai Government that each side will take back. on a case by case basis. those of its citizens who have illegally crossed into the other country and wish to return home. The Department of State has had reports of returnees who have been treated well by the Lao authorities. However. there have also been rumors from refugees in Thailand of executions of those who had been repatriated. It has not been possible to confirm these stories. It is clear. however. that certain categories of refugees can return without major reprisals. c. Freedom to Participate in the Political Process Local elections were held by the new authorities in the autumn of 1975. Voters in villages and districts were allowed a choice from a list of candidates who had been preselected by the state/party organization.