Tens of thousands of Burmese refugees living in Thailand are more optimistic about returning following the November 8 election wins of the National League for Democracy (NLD) led by Aung San Suu Kyi. However, many who fled decades of conflict in Myanmar remain cautious.

Many live in several official camps along Thailand’s western border and have seen little chance for returning home. But the November 8 election of the NLD has changed that outlook. Many in the camps have long supported Suu Kyi and deeply opposed the military government.

Vivian Tan, regional spokesperson for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), said the ceasefire agreements will be key in the refugees’ decision making of returning to Burma.

“The national ceasefire agreement is just as important – if not more important for the refugees because they really want to see the provisions of this agreement upheld – that there is a firm end to the conflict so they can resume their lives back home,” said Tan.

The UNHCR’s position, said Tan, is for the refugees to return voluntarily backed by continuing support from international donors.