“They have fled their homeland to escape killings, torture, rape, and forced labour by the Burmese military regime” (KBDDF).

Of tens of thousands of refugees residing in the Thai-Burmese border camps, the majority belong to the Karen tribe. The rest, not allowed to leave, are placed by the Thai government in government-built villages, which are used as attractions for tourists.

Women traditionally wear special necklace rings. However, nowadays the neckwear is mostly used as a welcoming token for the tourist.